Spay/Neuter Ordinances Hit Dallas, Texas
Like many other communities around the country, Dallas has struggled with the issue of stray animals. And like some other misguided leaders, they recently cobbled together a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance as a magic-wand approach to the problem. It’s destined to fail.
To be fair, some council members weren’t happy about creating more bureaucracy, or passing laws that will be difficult or impossible to enforce. After all, current laws are not routinely enforced, according to council member Sheffie Kadane. If they were, there wouldn’t be a stray animal problem.
The proposal requires that all d*gs and cats be neutered. However, a veterinarian can certify that an animal should be exempt for health reasons. Also those pets younger than six months, service animals, or those belonging to a licensed breeder would be exempt. But the $70-per-animal permit fees offer a major hit against breeders, and a number have said they’ll move out of the city. (Note: the original proposal was to charge $500 per animal for a breeding license)
Carolyn Davis, another council member, believes that Dallas’ efforts in dealing with stray animals has been sadly lacking. But she also warned against punishing animal breeders who follow laws and act responsibly. The new ordinances in fact will only impact those who already do the right thing.
While I agree with the spirit of such laws—who doesn’t want to see euthanasia rates and strays decreased?—I also have problems with attempting to legislate a solution. I really like the fact that under the new ordinance, tethering a d*g becomes illegal. Using animals as prizes also is prohibited.
But the people who refuse to supervise their animals, allow them to roam or to breed indiscriminately, have no intention of following the new laws any better than they did the old ones. Nothing’s solved. And the good guys on both sides of the fence become opponents instead of partners in finding a solution to a problem everyone wants fixed.
Recent Posts
Celebrating St. Patrick's Day with your Pets
WEEKLY CUDDLE CHAMPIONS: Monroe and Buckeye
Introducing Caplin: The World's Largest Rodent
Loyal Canine Rescues Drowning Kitty
Shakti: The Cat that Lived Up to her Name
"You're Fat": Vet Hits Me With Hard Truth
The Cat who Owns an R.V.: Luxurious Travel
Lazy Dog Owner Arrested for Walking His Dog
Petside: Get Started
-
- 2010 NCAA Mascot Tournament
Vote for your favorite pet mascots to determine the ultimate NCAA mascot champion!
-
- Find a Breed
Browse dog and cat breeds to find your perfect pal.
-
- Diagnose a Condition
Use PetVet to research what's ailing your pet.
-
- Locate a Hospital
- Find the nearest accredited animal hospital.
Specials
Check out these deals picked by petside.com just for you!
Comments (0)
add your comment