In The News: Recent Happenings
Pet Sterilization is Officially a Law in Los Angeles February 26th 2008
Los Angeles animal shelters took in 50,000 cats and dogs last year and euthanized approximately 15,000, at the cost of $2 million.
The ordinance, signed today by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, will take effect Oct. 1, 2008 and is aimed at reducing the number of animals in the city's shelters and decreasing the rate of euthanasia.
Pet parents who do not abide by the new law will receive information on subsidized sterilization services, and be given an additional 60 days to have their pet spayed or neutered. If they still fail to comply within 60 days, they will face a fine of $100 and be ordered to serve eight hours of community service. A third offense could result in a $500 fine or 40 hours of community service.
According to city officials, Los Angeles animal shelters took in 50,000 cats and dogs last year and euthanized approximately 15,000 of them at a cost of $2 million.
The new law does exempt some animals including; guide dogs, show animals, professional breeder’s dogs, and those used by police agencies.
Currently, a campaign is underway to push forward a similar law at the state level. The success of the bill in Los Angeles may very well become precedent setting legislation that could inspire other cities, townships, and municipalities across the country to adopt similar measures. The successful implementation of this law will no doubt save countless animals from ending up on the street, in shelters, or being euthanized.
