State Of Mine - Events

ALABAMA http://www.legislature.state.al.us/
Athens - City Council is considering a amendment to the “bad dog” ordinance to say you cannot have a kennel inside an open carport, that a carport shall not be used as an enclosure for keeping dogs. Current city ordinance on vicious dogs is vague, at best. Sec. 10-5, titled “Keeping of wild animals or vicious animals prohibited,” states: “(a) No person shall keep or permit to be kept on his premises any wild animal for display or for exhibition purposes, whether gratuitously or for a fee. This section shall not be construed to apply to performing animal exhibitions or circuses. (b) No person shall keep or permit to be kept any wild animal as a pet.”

Colbert County - animal control director asking larger municipalities to consider ordinance to outlaw chaining dogs on grounds it makes them more territorial and aggressive.  In addition the ordinance would mandate that dog pens must provide 100 square feet of space for each dog over 3 months old.  If dogs are fenced it must be or similar material, etc.
Dothan - new ordinance gives AC officers right of entry for the purpose to impound animal (s) and issue citations. Defines regulations for "dangerous", "vicious" and nuisance (any animal at large not spay or neutered)" dogs, prohibits urination or defecation on public property, liability for damage, etc. Update: City has put aside the proposed ordinance and has agreed to the formation of a ten member panel of community experts to construct a new ordinance that meets the needs of all interested parties. *TA

Fultondale - City Council discussing a proposed ordinance regarding owning and keeping dangerous animals in the city. The proposed ordinance would be breed specific and includes sections on
notification of people currently owning animals, and insurance requirements for those who continue to keep dogs. The only breed to be banned under the proposed ordinance would be pit bulls, although current owners would be able to keep their dogs. However, officials are considering revisions to the proposal.

ARKANSAS http://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/
Crossett – re city's existing animal ordinance as compared to a recommendation prepared by a committee working on the definition of a vicious dog, council moved to amend existing ordinance. Update: City Council considering what would be among the strictest pet-identification ordinances in the country: mandatory microchips for all cats and dogs.

Forrest City - Under Forrest City Ordinance 1825, keeping dogs on flooring of a wire grid is prohibited. Animal Control Department is trying to get the word out about dogs being kept in cages with wire-mesh flooring

Little Rock - city leaders voted unanimously to approve a vicious dog ordinance, placing restrictions on pit bulls. The ordinance requires pit bulls to be spayed or neutered and micro-chipped, among other things. It takes effect immediately. City leaders voted on a vicious dog ordinance rather than a pit bull ordinance. The vicious dog ordinance only covers pit bulls right now, but it could cover other breeds in the future if any are deemed dangerous. Passed 02/19/08

Update Gov. Mike Beebe said Friday he believes a consensus can be reached on making cruelty to animals a felony in Arkansas. "I think reasonable people understand that a tough ... but fair animal-cruelty law that doesn't adversely impact animal husbandry and normal livestock and poultry practices by our agriculture community, and doesn't adversely impact legitimate hunting and fishing ... can be fashioned," Beebe told reporters. Two bills to toughen the state's animal-cruelty laws failed during the 2007 legislative session. The debate was revived Wednesday when Beebe took a question on the subject during his call-in television program on the Arkansas Educational Television Network.
North Little Rock - new ordinance, residents still will be allowed to have pit bulls; new residents can move with their dogs into the city but will have to register them with Animal Services, pose for a photograph with the dog, sterilize the animal and pay an additional fee to have a dangerous breed permit.  The ordinance also limits owners to two dogs per household, would apply to American pit bull terriers, Staffordshire terriers, American Staffordshire terriers and any mix of those breeds. * DAR NOTE: City of Little Rock added to lawsuit filed by Responsible Owners of Arkansas Dogs (ROADS) re: BSL.

Rector - City Council continued its discussion on how best to approach the implementation of a new vicious dog ordinance during Monday (01/04/08)  night’s monthly meeting. In the city’s current ordinance, a dog deemed “vicious” is required to be kept by its owner in a pen and hat constitutes a vicious dog? On the topic of vicious dogs, one breed was constantly mentioned: Pit Bulls. Mayor Ron Kemp suggested the council members meet with people in the city over the next month to gain a better understanding of what the residents of Rector would like to see included in the ordinance and whether or not specific dog breeds should be named.

CALIFORNIA - www.legislature.ca.gov
AB0667 (2007) - An act to amend Section 600 of the Penal Code, relating to crimes. Law enforcement animals. Existing law makes it a crime to willfully and maliciously injure any horse or dog used by a peace officer in his or her duties, as specified.

AB1938 - An act to add Section 17052.26 to the Revenue and Taxation Code, relating to taxation, to take effect immediately, tax levy. This bill would authorize a credit against that tax for each taxable year beginning on or after January 1, 2008, in an amount equal to 25% of the aggregate amount paid or incurred by a taxpayer for qualified costs, as defined, to spay or neuter a cat or dog.

AB1958 - An act to amend Section 1808.4 of the Vehicle Code, relating to the Department of Motor Vehicles. This bill would add to that list a veterinarian employed by a zoo, a public animal control agency shelter, or a society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter or a humane society shelter contracting with a local public agency for animal care or protection services. This bill, by adding persons to be covered by those confidentiality requirements, would expand the scope of a crime, thereby imposing a state-mandated local program. The bill would also make technical clarifying changes.

AB1969 - An act to amend Section 600 of the Penal Code, relating to crimes. This bill would provide that the penalty for intentionally causing, under the stated circumstances, the death of a police dog or horse is 3, 4, or 5 years. 

AB2131 - An act to add Section 54.25 to the Civil Code, and to amend Section 365.5 of the Penal Code, relating to peace officers. This bill would permit a peace officer assigned to a canine unit, who is on official assignment for travel away from his or her home jurisdiction, to be accompanied in those places by his or her peace officer dog without paying an extra charge. 

AB2132 - An act to amend Sections 2016 and 4370 of, and to add Section 2011.5 to, the Fish and Game Code, relating to hunting. This bill would require signs forbidding trespass to be at least 81/2 by 11 inches in size, and would permit a person to enter lands owned or occupied by another if oral consent is obtained from the owner or owner's agent. This bill would make it unlawful for a person to remove any collar from a hunting dog with the intent to prevent or hinder the owner from locating the dog. This bill would permit the use of one dog per hunter, for the purpose of tracking and locating a dead or wounded deer, in every area where a deer may lawfully be taken during archery season.

AB2233 - An act to add Section 23118 to the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles. This bill would prohibit a person from driving a motor vehicle while holding a live animal in his or her arm or arms, or upon his or her lap. Because this bill would create a new crime, it would impose a state-mandated local program.

AB2276 - An act to amend Section 7200 of the Business and Professions Code, relating to professions and vocations. State Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind. Existing law provides for the licensing and regulation of guide dog training and instructional services by the State Board of Guide Dogs for the Blind in the Department of Consumer Affairs. Under existing law the board becomes inoperative on July 1, 2011, and is repealed on January 1, 2012. This bill would instead make the board inoperative on July 1, 2016, and would repeal it on January 1, 2017.

AB2281 - An act to amend Section 597.5 of the Penal Code, relating to dog fighting. This bill would, instead, make it a felony for any person to be intentionally present, as a spectator, at any place, building, or tenement where preparations are being made for a dog fight, or to be knowingly and intentionally present at a dog fight, as specified. Because this bill would increase the punishment for an existing crime, it would impose a state-mandated local program. 

AB2291 - An act to add and repeal Article 5.7 (commencing with Section 18755) of Chapter 3 of Part 10.2 of Division 2 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, relating to taxation. as introduced, Mendoza. Taxpayer contributions: Low Cost/Free Spay-Neuter Fund.

AB2296 - An act relating to animals. This bill would declare the intent of the Legislature to enact legislation to protect individuals engaging in work with animal subjects in California.

AB2423 - An act to amend and add Sections to, the Business and Professions Code, relating to professions and vocations. This bill would authorize the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians of the State of California, the Veterinary Medical Board, the Structural Pest Control Board, and the Director of Consumer Affairs, to issue a probationary license or registration to an applicant subject to specified terms and conditions. The bill would require these boards and the director, when considering the issuance of a probationary license or registration, to request that an applicant with a dismissed conviction provide proof of that dismissal and would require that consideration be given to whether the applicant's criminal conviction has been dismissed, there have been no subsequent criminal convictions, and either at least 3 years have passed since the dismissal of the criminal conviction or at least 5 years have passed since the person completed his or her sentence. The bill would also authorize these boards and the director to revoke, suspend, or deny at any time any required license or registration and, upon the denial of a license or registration, would require these boards and the director to provide a specified statement of reasons for a denial. The bill would require these boards and the director to conduct a specified study related to licensing or registration functions that may create barriers to employing people with criminal records and to report these findings to the Legislature on or before September 1, 2010.

AB2427 - An act to amend Section 460 of the Business and Professions Code, relating to professions and vocations. This bill would make it unlawful for a city or county to prohibit that person or a group of those persons from engaging in any act or series of acts that fall within the statutory or regulatory definition of that business, occupation, or profession.

AB2949 - An act to amend Sections 1815, 1816, and 1981 of the Civil Code, relating to involuntary deposits. This bill would provide that an involuntary deposit is made by the abandonment or leaving of a live animal in or about any premises or real property that has been vacated upon, or immediately preceding, the termination of a lease or other rental agreement or foreclosure of the property. The bill would authorize any person or private entity with whom a live animal is involuntarily deposited to immediately transfer the animal to any animal control agency or shelter for proper care and attention, or to notify animal control officials for the purpose of retrieving the animal.  

A.C.R.103 - Relative to Take Your Dog to Work Day. This measure would designate June 20th as Take Your Dog to Work Day, and would encourage employers to make their workplaces pet friendly. June 20, 2008, shall be designated as Take Your Dog to Work Day
SB0685 (2007) - An act to repeal and add Section 15212 of the Probate Code, relating to pet trusts.
SB0902 (2007) - An act to add Section 13159.85 to the Health and Safety Code, relating to firefighters. Requiring the State Fire Marshall to update regulations for accelerant canines and their handlers.
SB0986 (2007) - An act to amend Section 122350 of the Health and Safety Code, relating to pet stores.

SB1205 - An act to amend and add Sections to, the Business and Professions Code, relating to veterinary medicine.

SB1775 - An act to add Section 598.1 to the Penal Code, relating to dogfighting. This bill would provide forfeiture procedures for certain property connected with the crime of dogfighting, as specified. The bill would state findings and declarations of the Legislature in that regard, and the intent of the Legislature in connection with the forfeiture proceeding provisions.

Baldwin Park - Officials want to follow Los Angeles' lead by requiring that puppies and kittens be spayed or neutered. Councilwomen Marlen Garcia and Monica Garcia have asked staff members to study the Los Angeles policy - adopted last week - and see how it can be tailored to fit Baldwin Park.

Butte County - Oroville - entirely revised county animal ordinance will go before the Board of Supervisors. The new document, among other things, includes 46 definitions related to animals including things such as "cattery," "animal hoarder," and "potentially dangerous and vicious animals." Another portion of the ordinance delineates the responsibilities of an animal owner. On the list of duties is keeping animals "restrained as required," vaccinating dogs and cats against rabies, obtaining dog licenses and animal permits as needed, and making sure that animals "shall not disturb the peace, safety or create a nuisance." The area of potentially dangerous and vicious animals is being expanded so it applies to animals other than dogs. What constitutes potentially dangerous or vicious is being altered so a single incident of biting or killing another animal may be enough for the designation. The new ordinance would require licenses for "catteries" as well as kennels.

City of Sacramento -  importing adoptable dogs to meet the demand at the shelters and building a new $25 million shelter where, evidently, they are planning to eventually be the only place in town to "buy" a pet.

Huntington Beach - City Council opted out of any programs requiring pet owners to sterilize or microchip their pets - whether mandatory or incentive-based - or to license cats. The council also voted to make it mandatory for anyone advertising dogs or cats for adoption to display a business license number in the ad, which was the only original language added to a city law concerning pet licensing. PASSED 01/04/08 Update: City Council rejected the last remaining component in what began as a mandatory spay/neuter ordinance, the requirement for a city business license in order to advertise any dog or cat available for any type of transfer regardless of whether the owner is in business. (03/17/08)
Kern County - Public workshops conducted to introduce possible Animal Ordinance amendments. As a result of public input, staff indicated changes would be included in further discussion, may be acted upon in February. Update: County Animal Control Commission answered questions and debunked myths about proposals affecting dog owners and breeders. There are no mandatory spaying and neutering laws in the proposals. Proposals, which have not yet been set, cover issues such as increasing annual license fees for unaltered dogs and animal facility permits. Update: supervisors, saying “enough is enough,” ordered study of a mandatory spay-neuter rule Tuesday (03-11) in light of rising animal euthanasia rates. Board of Supervisors, not the animal control commission, that will have the final say on any mandatory spay-neuter rule. David Price, director of the county agency that manages Kern County Animal Control, said supervisors need to understand there will be a dollar cost to implement mandatory spay-neuter. Any recommendation staff makes to the commission and the board will have to have an enforcement and low-cost spay-neuter component. Judie Mancuso (CA AB1634) is pushing for the ordinance.
Long Beach - City Council's Public Safety Committee is expected to meet Feb. 19 or 26 to discuss a proposed "dangerous dog ordinance" that could tighten laws and increase penalties for owners with potentially dangerous dogs. Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske believes the proposed model should include elements from policies advocated by The Coalition for Living Safely with Dogs in the state of Colorado, according to the newspaper. Some of the elements include: .. well-defined procedure for determining if a dog is potentially dangerous, increased penalties and a spay or neuter requirement for dogs found running loose more than once, an option for first-time animal ordinance offenders to choose an education program over costly fines and mandatory pet micro-chipping. Update: proposed new rules by City Council's Public Safety Committee include implanting microchips in any dogs found loose and unattended. Also, owners of dogs found at large that have bitten or attempted to bite or menace another human or animal, because of the owner's failure to contain it by ordinary means, may face criminal charges and other possible penalties under the proposal. Update: City Council unanimously approved the creation of a new dangerous dog ordinance that would include stiffer penalties for the dogs' owners, the implantation of identification microchips in impounded dogs and mandatory education on responsible pet ownership for owners who violate the law. Under the new rules, which build on existing dog laws, impounded animals would be implanted with a microchip for identification, and tougher leash laws would penalize owners of animals that leave their property for neighboring yards. Passed 04/01/08
Los Angeles - Most dogs and cats in the city of Los Angeles would have to be spayed or neutered by four months of age under a proposal approved Monday by a City Council committee. The proposed ordinance is intended to reduce the number of animals in the city's shelters and decrease the rate of euthanasia, which costs the city about $2 million a year. The proposed law would require pet owners to spay or neuter their dogs and cats by four months of age. The proposal includes exemptions for animals who show and have competed in at least one legitimate show or sporting competition; dogs that are in the process of earning an agility, carting, herding, protection, rally, hunting, working or other title; guide, signal or service dogs; dogs that are actively used by law enforcement agencies; and animals with valid breeding permits. 2/1/08 Update: Passed first reading 10-1 Update: PASSED. Update: The Superior Court struck two blows against animal mistreatment in Los Angeles County’s six animal shelters by giving Plaintiffs the first two victories in their lawsuit. A lawsuit filed by the national No Kill Advocacy Center, Cathy Nguyen, a volunteer animal rescuer, and Rebecca Arvizu, a Los Angeles County taxpayer and animal rescuer, against Los Angeles County, its Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC), and the Department’s Director, Marcia Mayeda, alleges unlawful and abusive treatment of animals at all six Los Angeles County animal shelters. Among the allegations in the complaint, the County Department of Animal Care and Control routinely: Kills healthy and treatable animals before their state mandated holding period expires; Misclassifies animals as “ill” or “injured” in order to kill them before their holding period expires even though the animals are not irremediably suffering as required by state law;  Kills lost animals without making reasonable attempts to find the animals’ owners; Fails to provide adequate veterinary care to impounded animals, resulting in animal deaths; Fails to provide adequate nutrition, water, shelter and exercise to impounded animals and to treat the animals humanely and kindly; Refuses to release animals to rescue groups that are willing to care for the animals until adoptive homes can be found and, instead, kills the animals. In addition, the lawsuit alleges that DACC unlawfully violated the civil rights of Plaintiff Nguyen by retaliating against her for publicizing its unlawful treatment of animals. The County replied by filing a motion to dismiss the case arguing, in essence, that the County has complete discretion to determine: Whether and when the County may lawfully kill an animal; Whether and when the County is obligated to provide veterinary treatment to an animal in its care; and Whether and when the County should release to willing rescue groups animals that the County otherwise plans to kill. In addition, the County argued that, even if it is violating the law or treating animals inhumanely, concerned citizens should not be allowed to force the County to stop.
Modesto - City Council proposal regarding dangerous dogs could send their owners to jail and ratchet up penalties for canine attacks.
Napa - City Council adopted new regulations Tuesday (01/22/08) for dealing with dangerous and vicious animals. The new rules should speed up enforcement of animal control laws, with greater fines for owners and reduced animal stays at the county shelter for pets. Officers now have more authority to find that a dog is potentially dangerous or vicious and impose corrective actions to protect the public. Owners can appeal to a hearing board. A "potentially dangerous" dog is one that has engaged in unprovoked, aggressive conduct. A "vicious" dog has caused unprovoked injury or death to a human or domestic animal. If a dog is found to be dangerous, the owner will have to agree to having an identifying microchip inserted in the animal, obtain professional training for the animal, reimburse medical expenses and property damage and install graphic warning signs where the animal lives. The additional requirements for vicious animals include expert behavioral testing, construction of an approved safety enclosure, required use of an approved leash, collar
and muzzle, spaying or neutering, proof of liability insurance and a prohibition of the dog living with minor children.

Palm Desert - City looks to put teeth into its dog leash laws. Dogs must be on leashes everywhere, even open county land, unless the area is designated for off-leash, Animal Control Officer James Huffman said. Often owners of unleashed dogs will first be given a warning. But a citation for a first offense is $50; the second citation costs $100 and the third costs $150. However, officers often don't have time to look for unleashed dogs. Between 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. only one officer is available for emergencies.

Paradise - Town Council used its Tuesday night (02/26) meeting as a brainstorming session for solutions to the recent dog attacks. In late January, two pit bulls killed a llama and allegedly attacked a resident's dog in the Roe Road and Wilson Lane neighborhoods. Since then the town, the Paradise Police Department and animal control have investigated the attacks and are looking for solutions to future vicious dog incidents. The town investigated three known pit bull owners in southern Paradise and determined those dogs weren't responsible for the attack. A suggestion licensing pit bulls as vicious dogs or requiring vicious dog owners to pay liability insurance. The town can create its own dangerous and vicious animal definitions, as long as they are not breed specific.

Pasadena - city may soon become the first in the Southland to require mandatory spaying and neutering of pit bulls. The Pasadena City Council asked staffers this week to come back in two months with a law mandating the sterilization of pit bulls and pit bull mixes. Penalties for dog owners violating the law would range from a citation to a misdemeanor, according to city documents. The law takes advantage of SB 861, a state Senate bill passed in 2005 that allows cities to regulate dogs based on breed. Pasadena would be the first in the region to enact a breed-specific ordinance. Update: City Council has ordered an ordinance drafted for mandatory spaying or neutering of pit bulls and pit bull mixes. The local city is the latest to proceed against breeding of the pit bulls, associated with injuries and deaths. The new law would require spaying or neutering unless the animal is less than eight weeks old, has lived in the city less than a month, or has a physical reason prohibiting sterilization. Dogs are also exempted if registered as a show dog or if the owner has applied for a permit as a breeder. Pit bulls being bred will be allowed one litter a year.
Santa Barbara County - County Animal Services will be hosting two community forums to invite public comment regarding a proposed Pet Population Awareness Law (PetPAL). The proposed ordinance to reduce dog and cat overpopulation aims to reduce the number of unwanted dogs and cats in the county by targeting specific populations without imposing additional burdens on responsible pet owners, and seeks to provide assistance to pet owners seeking to alter their pets but unable to afford the service. Update: Ordinance recognizes the responsibility of cat and dog owners to provide proper and humane care for their animals; and the need for mandatory sterilization of designated dogs and cats as a necessary means of addressing the problem of pet overpopulation Update: County of Santa Barbara discussion regarding mandatory spay neuter have been postponed. Originally scheduled for February 27 (Santa Barbara) and February 28 (Santa Maria), the County Board of Supervisors has advised "POSTPONED to April, possibly May."  Update: Board of Supervisors will hear a proposed spay/neuter ordinance will be presented during mid April and will be actually heard during May sometime. Update: Director of Animal Services in Santa Barbara will propose a mandatory spay/neuter for all dogs and cats in SB over the age of six months of age. The draft calls for breeders licenses for cats but no mention of this for dogs (yet). Any dog/cat over six months of age must have an unaltered animal permit to remain intact. If an animal is bred who lacks an unaltered animal permit...you have 30 days to get a permit or the animal must be altered within 60 days. The permit can be revoked if you refuse to allow inspection, upon 48 hrs of written notice, of any dog covered by an unaltered dog license or the premises on which the dog is kept. Another cause for revocation is violation of sec. 7-ll of County Code which talks about zoning, licensing, permits, animal control officers, etc. Having four dogs represents a "kennel" for which you need a permit (but catch 22--they won't grant you a kennel permit because of zoning restrictions...the vast majority of SB is residentially zoned.) This violation would cost you your unaltered animal permit.
West Hollywood - City Council has voted to ban the sale of dogs from puppy mills.

COLORADO - www.leg.state.co.us/

HB1129 - A BILL FOR AN ACT concerning a prohibition on any requirements for participation in a Animal Identification System when exhibiting an animal at the Colorado State Fair and Industrial Exhibitions
HB1185 - AN ACT concerning the mandatory sterilization of specified pet animals released to prospective owners from certain Pet Animal Facilities. Update: AN ACT concerning the mandatory sterilization of specified pet animals released to prospective owners from certain Pet Animal Facilities   Passed - sent to Governor
Arapahoe -County Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a meeting to discuss proposed legislation that would limit the total number of dogs per household to 4 unless a subsequent license is obtained.

Aurora - city council will have a review of their breed ban which began in February 2006 to determine its effectiveness. UPDATE: A spike in dog bites has some city council members wondering if a ban on "fighting dogs" is having the desired effect. Since city council banned pit bulls and other dangerous dogs in 2005, the number of reported dog bites from the restricted animals is down. But overall, the number of reported bites in Aurora is up, from 110 in 2005 to 157 last year. Council directed city staff to take a closer look at the statistics to try to determine how severe each bite has been and present the findings to council in the coming months.
Carbondale - Town Council agreed 12/11/07 new ordinance aimed at addressing aggressive animals requires tweaking, clarification of the penalty for neglecting a dog and a refined definition of “vicious.”  Mandatory leash laws and limiting number of dogs also discussed, agreed ordinance should include rewards for responsible owners.
Edgewood - seeks to limit number of animals in a home.  Limits are based on the number of lots, as opposed to number of acres.  A 100-acre lot has the same limits as a person on a 1-acre lot.
Parachute - ordinance to ban pit bulls, possibly Dobermans and Rottweilers - DEAD  12/13/07  approves vicious-pet ordinance re: dangerous and potentially dangerous dogs to apply to all breeds of dogs and any kinds of pets.  A municipal judge would determine whether an animal is potentially dangerous, a dog designated as potentially dangerous would have to be spayed or neutered, kept indoors or in a secure pen to prevent escape.  A dog classified as dangerous, meaning it had violated the ordinance after being deemed potentially dangerous, would be humanely euthanized.  If the dog were taken off its owner's property, it must wear a leash no longer than 4 feet.  The owner would also have to display a sign on his or her property to alert people that a dangerous animal was present, and obtain a special license and tag from the town. Violators subject to a municipal fine.  Ordinance will take effect once the Town Council gives it final approval at next meeting.

CONNECTICUT http://www.cga.ct.gov/

HB5827 - AN ACT CONCERNING ANIMAL SHELTERS. To protect the health and welfare of animals housed in animal shelters.

FLORIDA - www.myfloridahouse.gov
HB101 - An Act relating to dangerous dogs; amending s 767.14,F.S,; Eliminates prohibition of breed-specific local government regulation of dangerous dogs; providing an effective date. Update: General Bill - Dangerous Dogs - Eliminates prohibition of breed specific local government regulation of dangerous dogs. Last event: 1st reading Tuesday, March 4, 2008. UPDATE: a new house bill gives local governments more authority over specific breeds. Legislation would allow pit bull bans.
HB219/SB1994 - Gertrude Maxwell Save a Pet Creates a direct-support organization for the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Provides for the organization, operation, and purpose of the direct-support organization, etc.
SB444 - Sale of Dogs and Cats/DOACS [RPCC]: Redefines the term "pet dealer" for purposes of provisions authorizing a purchaser to return an animal to the pet dealer and receive a refund, exchange the animal, or receive a reimbursement of expenses. Authorizes the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to enforce statutory provisions related to the sale of dogs and cats, etc.

Broward County - Commissioners are studying the Palm Beach County ordinance for possible passage in Broward County.
Keystone Heights - At last Thursday's Keystone Heights City Council meeting, Mayor Mary Lou Hildreth and three councilmen said the town's pet ordinances are vague, out of date, and don't get enough enforcement. Bradley said the ordinances could stand some tweaking. After discussion, the council passed a motion which charges City Manager Ken Venables and Bradley to review the measures related to pets in the city.

Lake Mary - City is discussing a change in the pet limit laws.
Miami City -anti-tethering ordinance passed. Ordinance sets down limitations, locations where a dog can be tethered, type of collar and type of tether. Passed 4/10/08

Miami-Dade County – After Hearing to discuss changes to the animal control ordinance limiting number of pets owned, implementing hobby breeder licensing, requiring mandatory micro-chipping for dog breeders and restricting rescue organizations, Commissioners voted to defer the Chapter 5 re-write in Miami-Dade  12/18/07
Okaloosa County - A second lawsuit has been filed against Okaloosa County seeking to have its ordinance requiring that dog and cat owners pay a $10 license fee declared unconstitutional. Destin attorney Tom Hoffer, with the law firm of Matthews & Hawkins filed the suit.  The law firm is researching the issue to see if they can meet the requirements to file a class action lawsuit. If successful the county would have to return all the money it has collected from the license fees since they were implemented in 1992.

Palm Beach - People agreed to a non mandatory spay/neuter program offered through vet vouchers in the entire County result in 6 MONTH waiting list to get low cost spay/neuter.  UPDATE: Officials have taken the bite out of controversial plan to force residents to spay and neuter their pets unless they pay for a more expensive license tag and sign an affidavit agreeing not to breed their pets. Newest version would allow all pet owners to opt out of the requirement by paying a $75 fee. Pet owners who buy the unaltered license also would be required to certify in writing that the animal will not be bred. Breeders would be required pay for the permit $300 a year, but the county would waive the fee in many cases. The rules would also prevent breeders from breeding more than two litters of puppies and kittens a year. Breeders would be required to obtain a breeding permit and would be forced to hand over the names, addresses and phone numbers of the people who buy their pets. A final hearing on the rules will be held Feb. 5. Update: 2/5/08 PASSED Update: Less than two months after winning approval to regulate dog and cat breeders in Palm Beach County, Dianne Sauve has a new target: pet stores. Sauve, the county's animal care and control director, wants to require stores that sell puppies and kittens to tell her where they are getting the animals from and whom they are selling to. Current laws allow her to request the information, she said, and her department is already working on reporting forms for the stores to fill out. The information will allow animal control officers to follow up with owners and see whether the pet has been spayed or neutered. If it hasn't, the owner will have to pay a $75 fee to register it and may be required to get a breeder's permit.

Volusia County - commissioner notes indicate they have asked county attorneys to review the various MSN laws currently on the books to include Caifornia's and Palm Beach County's. The Volusia County Council likely will decide Thursday (2/7/08) whether to consider requiring pet owners to spay and neuter their animals. Update: By a 4-3 vote, the County Council directed its attorneys to draft an ordinance requiring pet owners to spay or neuter their dogs and cats.

Walton County - Co. is in the process of making changes to the Animal Control Ordinance. Board directed the Animal Control Department to come up with language that would make the changes to the ordinance more effective. A public meeting scheduled for Tues April 8th

GEORGIA - www.legis.state.ga.us/
HB301 - To amend Part 1 of Article 2 of Chapter 12 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to gambling offenses, so as to change certain provisions relating to dog fighting; to prohibit dog fighting and related conduct; to provide for punishments; to provide for applicability; to provide for related matters; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes. Update: passed the Senate. Sent to governor for signature.

Athens-Clarke County - Bans tethering, requires animals to be housed in fenced-in area with a doghouse, etc.  Law in response to complaints from animal-rights activists and Athens-Clarke Animal Control officers. (PASSED)

Colquitt County - Moultre - County Board of Commissioners, by general consensus, have agreed to simply enforce state law rather than significantly alter the county's dangerous dog ordinance. State law addresses dangerous and vicious dogs and doesn't apply to nuisance animals. That falls under the county ordinance. Up until now, Colquitt County hasn't given authority to any entity to enforce the state law. State law also requires rabies inoculations and tags for all pets dogs and cats. The pets are required to wear those tags. Passed 01/14/08
Coweta County - Board of Commissioners has passed an amendment to its animal control ordinances expanding the definition of nuisance animals to include "aggressive dogs," and to provide means for county officials to impound an animal labeled as such, and what the appeal procedures are for the animal's owner. In addition to any fines imposed by the court, if the dog is classified by the court to be an aggressive dog, the court may order the dog to be confined, order the owner to post signs that an aggressive dog is on the premises, and order the owner to register the dog at an annual fee of $500. The premises will also be subject to annual inspections to ensure compliance with the court's order.   Passed 02/19/08

Macon - City Council committee proposed an ordinance that would make it illegal to leave a dog or cat tethered outdoors for eight continuous hours or for a total of 12 hours in a 24 hour period. The tether must be at least 15 feet long and cannot restrict the animal's access to food, water, shelter and a separate area to relieve itself. Ordinance still requires approval from the council
Sugar Hill - City Council is considering banning pit bulls from public property. The ordinance would prohibit the dogs, including mixed breeds, from going to public parks or government property within the city limits. Violators would be fined anywhere from $200 to $1,000. Update: City Council amended a resolution, making it unlawful to leave a cat or dog tethered and unattended. The amended ordinance passed unanimously.   Passed 02/19/08

HAWAII http://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/

Kauai - Kapaa - Kauai Police Department and the county parks department began enforcing the banning of dogs along the new $50 million, 16-mile coastal path, first with a warning and then, starting next week, with a ticket and a trip to court.  (Posted 03/03/08)

IDAHO - www.legislature.idaho.gov

H0391 - AN ACT RELATING TO DOGS; AMENDING CHAPTER 28, TITLE 25, IDAHO CODE, BY THE ADDITION OF A NEW SECTION 25-2809, IDAHO CODE, Adds to existing law relating to dogs to provide that the breeding, raising, boarding, producing or marketing of dogs of the herding, working and sporting breeds by the producer shall be deemed an agricultural pursuit and such animals shall be deemed livestock
Boise - A bill that would make dog fighting a felony and attending a dog fight a misdemeanor has won initial approval on Friday 01/18/08. The bill reaches out and grabs all those affiliated with the dog fighting, including spectators, given this is a for-profit venture in many cases. Working livestock dogs are exempt

ILLINOIS - www.ilga.gov

HB0203 - Creates the Retail Sale of Dogs and Cats Act. Imposes various requirements on pet dealers who sell dogs or cats. Provides that an animal must be examined by a licensed veterinarian before being placed with other animals by a pet dealer. Provides that a pet dealer must give the purchaser of a dog or cat a written statement containing certain information about the animal purchased and maintain a record of that information. Requires certain standards of care for animals. Imposes civil monetary penalties on a pet dealer for violations. Provides remedies for a purchaser if an animal becomes ill or dies as a result of an illness that existed in the animal at the time of purchase. Sets out a notice of an animal purchaser's rights, and requires that notice to be given to each purchaser of an animal from a pet dealer. Provides penalties for pet dealers who sell diseased or ill animals. Effective January 1, 2008.

HB4844 - Amends the Humane Care for Animals Act to prohibit destruction of an animal by decompression chamber and lowering the oxygen pressure or by using nitrous oxide, halothane, carbon monoxide, or carbon dioxide. Imposes criminal penalties for violation. Amends the Humane Euthanasia in Animal Shelters Act. Changes the short title to the Humane Animal Euthanasia Act. Contains provisions concerning renewal of a euthanasia technician certificate and continuing education; restrictions on issuing certificates because of felony convictions; euthanasia methods; refusal to renew and revocation of euthanasia technician and euthanasia agency certification; exemptions from certification; and criminal penalties. Amends other Acts to make conforming changes.

HB 5076 - Amends the Humane Care for Animals Act. Provides that any person, including a veterinarian, who in good faith provides emergency care or treatment without fee to an injured animal or an animal separated from its owner due to an emergency or a disaster is not liable for civil damages as a result of his or her acts or omissions in providing or arranging further care or treatment, except for willful or wanton misconduct. Provides that the statute of limitations is 2 years for a violation of the Act (instead of cruelty to animals). Effective immediately.

Berwyn - An 86 page proposal that covers it all.  Kennels, licensing, microchipping, limit law (4), BF's similar Good Sam law allowing citizens to take and hold dogs that the 'good citizen' may deem as being abused.   Tethering banned except for 1 hour, reporting, inspections, exotics, fines & penalties, vicious animals & housing specifics - including "should have known", dog runs including property line considerations, neighboring property, permits, pitch, no liability exemptions, feces removel, leash law, including prohibition of a leashed dog on private property (trespassing), wild animals, including types of feeders for birds, working animals shodding, rest period of 20 minutes every two hours, transporting animals, cruelty, animals in vehicles, nuisance animals, noise & barking, living accomodations including garage, porch, shed, basement without heat and a/c, veterinary care, the Kushner Doctrine, no bees (beekeeping), however, take special note of pages 60 & 61 explaining the reasons for NO BSL.  (Illinois does not permit BSL)  This ordinance regulates and defines an owner as any person having a right of property in an animal.(no matter the type of animal).

Burnham - village has decided it will not seek to ban pit bulls from the community because similar attempts to ban the dogs have been ruled unlawful. In Burnham, all dogs must be leashed and 'vicious dogs' must be muzzled.

Manhattan - A proposed regulation would limit pet owners to a total of four animals and keeping of livestock, wild, undomesticated or exotic animals is prohibited. Those who currently have more than four pets would be allowed to keep them, but not replace them. In addition to the required $1 license fee and inoculations, animal owners must immediately remove and dispose of pet excrement if it's not on their personal property. Dog walkers could be cited if they fail to carry a bag or container for picking up waste. Owners also could be cited if debris and odors on their own property become a health hazard. The proposed new law also is more specific about animals that create a nuisance. The previously prohibited "frequent and habitual" barking is now defined as continual barking for more than 30 minutes, or for "numerous periods of time" that disturb the peace and quiet. The new rules propose that dogs caught running at large a second time must be spayed or neutered within 30 days, to make them "less aggressive.

Marion - City Council is considering revisions to an animal control ordinance that would target cats as well as dogs.  One modification calls for every owner of a dog or cat within the city limits to place a collar on the pet bearing a tag with the owner's name, address and phone number.  A second revision in the ordinance concerns vaccinations. The owner of a dog or cat four months of age and older is expected to get his pet vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian each year.  Another change in the ordinance says it would be unlawful for any cat to run at large much like a dog, unless it has been spayed or neutered and inoculated for rabies. The animal control officer may impound any cat that is running at large in order to determine whether it has been spayed or neutered and inoculated. If the cat is in compliance, it will be released upon the owner's request at no charge. If the cat has not been spayed, neutered or inoculated, the pet owner may obtain the release of his cat after paying a fine.
Maryville - village must amend its ordinance that prohibits vicious dogs in the village and steer away from breed-specific ordinance. The state law says it cannot be breed specific, The current ordinance lists pit bulls. The only exceptions are police dogs and assistance dogs.
Springfield - New law in effect May 2007 protects pets and animals from domestic violence.
Farmington - Proposed ordinance (12/17/07) states that no 'new' pit bulls can be brought into the city.  Current pit bull owners will have to apply for a special license within 60 days of the ordinance.  The license would require proof of ownership of the pit bull, a copy of health and immunization records, a certificate of insurance for injury or damages by the dog for at least $500,000 and two photographs of the dog.  The license will cost $100.  UPDATE: Proposed ordinance was not on January 7 meeting agenda.  "There has been indication of potential litigation by various organizations, and the cost of a legal defense for this type of lawsuit would not be in the best interest of the citizens of Farmington," City Administrator Roger Woodcock said in a December news release.

INDIANA - www.in.gov/legislative

HB1254 - A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning criminal law and procedure. Animal cruelty. Provides that a person who knowingly or intentionally kills a vertebrate animal commits animal cruelty, a Class D felony.
HB1294 - A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning taxation; County option dog tax on kennels. Provides, for purposes of the county option dog tax, that a major kennel in which more than 15 taxable dogs are kept for breeding, boarding, training, or sale and that a minor kennel is one in which 15 or fewer taxable dogs are kept for breeding, boarding, training, or for sale.
SB190 - A BILL FOR AN ACT to amend the Indiana Code concerning agriculture and animals, setting minimum age requirements on the sale of dogs, birds and rabbits and proposing dog bite liability laws.
SB316 - Practice of veterinary medicine. Transfers the licensure of veterinarians and the registration of veterinary technicians to the article governing professions and occupations. Adds definitions of the terms "client", "consultation", "direct supervision", "indirect supervision", "registered veterinary technician", "supervisor", "veterinary assistant", and "veterinarian-client relationship". Amends the definition of "practice of veterinary medicine" to include the following acts done for compensation.

Columbus - updating the animal control ordinance and in an attempt to stop the backyard, down the street irresponsible breeders from over producing, this proposal is taking aim at those who are responsible and actually support rescue and the shelters. Proposed animal ordinance that will require breeders to pay a yearly fee of $100 for every unaltered dog/cat they own.

Howard County - Kokomo - commissioners passed a new ordinance aimed at dangerous dogs and their owners. Dogs considered dangerous by the law are those bred for fighting or that have a history of biting. Those dogs are now banned from ownership in Howard County. The law also takes aim at the owners of potentially dangerous dogs.  Previously, the county's ordinance dealt mostly with dogs considered a nuisance. The new law gives broader enforcement powers to animal control officers and places more responsibility on owners. Like a similar law in Indianapolis, Howard County's law isn't breed specific. It also spells out the responsibilities of dog owners to ensure that potentially dangerous dogs are confined with posted warning signs or muzzled. Owners also must maintain a minimum of $50,000 in insurance. Pet owners that run afoul of the new law will face hefty fines, or even forfeiture of their animals. Kokomo's city council will also consider adopting the new ordinance which can also result in fines up to $2500.   Passed 02/18/08

Veedersburg - Town council members on Tuesday night (04/07/08) heard from the town's dogcatcher, Jim Abernathy, about some of his calls he has answered involving dogs. His primary concern lately has been pit bulls that have been getting loose near the park. The council discussed several options of dealing with the loose dog problem. Abernathy suggested that maybe Veedersburg should ban any pit bulls from town. Councilman Bob Barker suggested euthanizing dogs that bite anyone. Town attorney Stephanie Campbell said she would review the state statutes on dealing with vicious dogs for the next meeting

IOWA - www.legis.state.ia.us
HF2005 - An Act relating to contest events where an animal is injured, tormented, or killed, by providing a penalty for spectators
Fremont - City Council decided to kick out all pit bulls this month in response to dogs running loose in the city. An amendment to Fremont City Ordinance 4-1-7 defines dangerous animals to include Staffordshire terriers, American pit bull terriers and any dog which has the appearance and characteristics of being predominantly of those breeds. Passed 02/04/08 Update: Has a problem with "ONE" dog running loose, so they ban all "staffordshire terriers", american pit bull terriers and any dog with an ounce of potential pit bull'ness in them. Fremont City Ordinance 4-1-7 defines dangerous animals to include Staffordshire terriers, American pit bull terriers and any dog which has the appearance and characteristics of being predominantly any of the above breeds. The amendment was passed by the Fremont City Council on Feb. 4     FYI - Fremont banned all dogs over 50 lbs a couple of years ago.

Marshalltown - Council unanimously passes ban of dogs at public events  Passed 03/10/08

Randolph - Bounty on Cats Out, Spay and Neuter is in - Mayor Vance Trively instituted a $5 bounty payment on catching and delivering live cats and dogs to him to be killed. Thanks to the more than 3,500 letters you sent and to the help of local supporters and the Iowa State Veterinarian, the Randolph, Iowa’s City Council has overridden the mayor’s plan.
Sioux City - Animals, declared vicious, in Sioux City will be put to sleep. And, the city won't have to get the pet owner's permission to euthanize the animal. Service dogs... like police canines... are exempt. Passed 03/17/08

Waterloo - Mayor Tim Hurley said changes are in store for the city's animal control ordinance following several well publicized dog attacks. Hurley said City Attorney Jim Walsh is preparing changes to the ordinance as it pertains to dangerous dogs. Proposed ordinance outlining a list of potentially dangerous dog breeds --- pit bull terriers, Rottweilers, wolf hybrids, chows, Doberman pinschers and others --- which would have to be registered as such to stay in the city limits. Owners would need to detail their ability to confine their pets and prove they had insurance to cover damage or injury the dogs may cause. The proposed ordinance would not allow the owner of a dog to keep the animal during the appeal process for a dangerous dog citation, and the owner would be required to post a bond to cover the boarding costs for the animal pending that appeal. Owners choosing to remove a dangerous dog from the city rather than destroying it would need to post a plan of where it would be taken; dogs returning to the city would be destroyed immediately without appeal. The City Council will discuss the proposed changes in the near future. Update:  City Council's ordinance committee is expected to consider a new proposal to protect the public from "potentially dangerous" dogs defining what makes a dog potentially dangerous and requiring owners of such animals to pay higher animal registration fees and carry liability insurance. Under the proposed ordinance, a dog is "potentially dangerous" if it causes injury to a person or domestic animal or is found running at large if its owner has been cited by Black Hawk Animal Control three or more times within a 12-month period. The ordinance excludes dogs used by law enforcement or incidents where the injured person was trespassing; where the victim was committing or attempting to commit a crime on the dog owner's property; where the victim was abusing, torturing or assaulting the animal without justification; or when a domestic animal that was at large entered the area where the dog was confined. If a dog is deemed dangerous under the proposed ordinance, its owner would have to register it with the city, pay a $50 registration fee, provide proof of at least $300,000 in liability insurance to cover injuries caused by the dog and be affixed with a permanent registration number. The ordinance would also make it easier to declare a potentially dangerous dog as dangerous if it commits future offenses. Update: The ordinance, which has been discussed for several weeks, would bring new responsibilities for owners of naughty / “potentially dangerous” dogs. A separate ordinance change would tighten up the ordinance related to dogs after they’ve been deemed a danger.

KANSAS http://www.kslegislature.org/legsrv-legisportal/index.do
Beloit - BSL was supposedly repealed however, the city council posted a new breed ban via a newspaper. Humboldt - approved a series of sweeping new animal control ordinances that ban ownership of pit bull terriers and Rottweilers within city limits.  Only those who had properly registered those types of dogs with the city by Dec. 31 will be allowed to keep the animals. Even those who have previously registered their dogs face a litany of restrictions, including: — The dogs must be confined indoors or in a secure pen. — Dogs are allowed outside containment areas only if restrained by a leash and muzzle. — Owners must maintain at least $50,000 in liability insurance for bodily injury or death and have sufficient “beware of dog” signage. — Dogs must be photographed, and cannot be sold or have their ownership transferred to any other person within the city. — Any offspring born to a registered pit bull or Rottweiler must be removed from the city within six weeks of birth. — Violators are subject to Humboldt Municipal Court fines of up to $1,000 and a 30-day jail sentence. Passed 01/07/08

Edwardsville - City Council modernized the community’s animal control ordinance updating definitions and strengthening penalties. The new ordinance includes definitions of 33 terms, from “abandon” to “work dog” and abandons proscription of breeds such as pit bulls that are generally regarded as dangerous in favor of a prohibition of animals that are found to be dangerous or vicious. Passed 02/11/08

Eudora - city’s proposed new codebook has various breeds of pit bulls and bull dogs in its cross hairs. One of the biggest possible changes in the new codebook has to do with the types of animals that will be allowed, or in the case of pit bulls, not allowed within city limits. Eudora residents would not be allowed to keep American pit bull, Staffordshire terriers, bull terriers or any mixed breed thereof on property within the city. Dogs had been allowed in the city if the owner registered the dog, but since nobody followed those rules, the council decided to outlaw the aggressive breeds. Owners of pit bulls would be given a 10-day notice, but the city will not search out owners of the dogs.

Hutchinson - city updated animal control ordinances - allows pet owners to pay a higher fee for choosing not to spay or neuter their pets while offering a financial incentive to the owners of pets who do so. Effective 01/01/08
Winfield - new ordinance requiring proof of rabies immunization.  Required to either wear registration tag or provide proof that the animal has been injected with under-the-skin microchip ID, the number of which must be provided at registration time. Effective 01/01/08
Winfield - new ordinance regarding dog pens will take effect on July 1. Confinement can be met by adequately fenced yard, and in situations where the yard is not fenced, the owner shall confine the dog to the home or an outside enclosure constructed of chain link or other suitable materials, of sufficient height to prevent the dog from escaping with top covered to provide the dog with shade and protection from the elements. Effective 07/01/08
Winfield - new ordinance restricting tethering will also take effect Effective 07/01/08

KENTUCKY http://www.lrc.ky.gov/

HB039 - AN ACT relating to animals to Create new section of KRS Chapter 258 to require spaying or neutering of dogs and cats as a prerequisite to release from a releasing agency; define "releasing agency" and "veterinarian"; mandate spaying or neutering prior to release of a dog or cat; allow for exceptions related to health and maturity, rightful ownership, and use of cooperative agreements; declare that no local spay-neuter ordinance shall be superseded.

HB145 - AN ACT relating to torture of a dog or cat to amend KRS 525.135 relating to torture of a dog or cat to increase the penalty for a first offense to a Class D felony; provision to name the bill, "Romeo's Law."

HB375 - AN ACT relating to cruelty to animals to amend KRS 515.130 relating to cruelty to animals to define shelter and shade requirements for dogs and dog houses.

HB518 - AN ACT relating to animals. to Create a new section of KRS Chapter 258 to establish requirements in the sale of dogs by pet stores; amend KRS 525.135 relating to the torture of a dog or cat to increase the penalty for a first offense to a Class D Felony.

SB58 - AN ACT relating to torture of a dog or cat ro amend KRS 528.135 relating to torture of dog or cat, to provide that the first offense, as well as subsequent offenses, is Class D felony.

SB206 - Amend KRS 258.117 to add two members nominated by the Humane Society of the United States to the Animal Control Advisory Board.
Auburn - residents who own what are considered to be vicious dogs will soon need to make a trip to City Hall to register their pets. The breeds named are Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, Pit Bull and Chow. Any dog with any characteristics of those breeds must be registered. Those who own a “vicious dog” must register the dog with the city. Registration will cost $20 a year and owners must show proof of insurance in order to receive a vicious dog license.  PASSED

Frankfort - Pam Rogers of the Kentucky Humane Society commented that come the first of the year they will in fact be pushing for forfeiture bonds on any animals taken.  Regardless of events, the KHS seems to believe that 'guilty' will be the only option.
Louisville - After poring over significant testimony, highlighted by a stro