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Mandatory spaying and neutering: A good or bad idea?
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Photo: Dallas Animal Services
A pet spay and neuter law in Los Angeles is days away from having teeth, and officials in other cities across the nation are debating whether to enact similar laws.
Los Angeles pet owners have until Oct. 1 to comply with the law, or face fines and face criminal charges. After a written warning, pet owners who still don't obey can face a fine of up to $500 or a misdemeanor charge.
Most dogs and cats over four-months-old must be spayed or neutered, with a few exceptions, including pets used for breeding or guide dogs. Owners must have documentation for any pets that are exempt from the law.
In Dallas, citizens have until Oct. 25 to spay or neuter their pets. The city's plan includes a free pet spay and neuter program for low-income residents, the first in Texas.
A female dog and her mate and all of their puppies -- if none are spayed or neutered -- can total 67,000 dogs in six years, according to Dallas Animal Services.
Spay and neuter laws have spurred hot debates in other cities, including Houston and Chicago.
Supporters say too many pets are being euthanized after they wind up in shelters because their owners couldn't care for them or didn't want them anymore.
Every year, as many as seven million pets enter animal shelters across the nation and up to four million are euthanized because of a lack of space or adequate resources, according to the ASPCA. But opponents say that government agencies should not regulate pet ownership. Others believe that the laws are too restrictive for responsible breeders. Opponents also say that education campaigns about proper pet care would be more effective than laws.
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