Mandatory Spay Neuter Pet Ordinance Helps Reduce Homeless Pet Population
Published on April 12, 2019
Huntsville Animal Services reminds the public it is enforcing the City’s mandatory spay/neuter ordinance approved in October 2018. The Huntsville City Council adopted Ordinance No. 18-952, Section 20 (b) where all animals impounded by Huntsville Animal Services will have mandatory sterilization and microchipping.
It is important that pet owners understand the new law and that if their dog or cat is impounded at the City of Huntsville Animal Services, that animal will be spayed or neutered before being released back to the owner. Having a pet ‘fixed’ comes with benefits.
- Prevents uterine infections, and breast and testicular cancer
- Prevents unwanted litters
- Prevents male dogs from roaming away from home and being hit by a car
- Avoids potential aggressive problems when neutered early
- Prevents pet overpopulation and euthanizing millions of dogs and cats each year
It is a myth that spaying or neutering will make your pet ‘fat,’ according to Animal Services Director, and veterinarian, Dr. Karen Sheppard. “Routine exercise and proper food intake will keep pets fit and trim. Teaching children about the miracle of birth through pets can be viewed online and in books.”
Visit Huntsville Animal Services and see the many dogs and cats that were once a miracle of birth and are now part of the pet overpopulation issue.
The shelter is located at 4950 Triana Boulevard. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Call 256-883-3782, visit HuntsvilleAL.gov/Animal, or check us out on Facebook .
