§ 5-164. Mandatory sterilization requirements.

(a)

If an animal is identified by the department as requiring sterilization in accordance with this chapter, the department will issue the owner a notice of compliance notifying the owner of the sterilization requirement and allow the animal's owner thirty (30) days to provide proof of sterilization to the department.

(b)

Owners may receive a temporary extension of time to sterilize their dog or cat if a veterinarian provides documentation showing that an extension is needed for the health and safety of the animal.

(c)

The following shall be exempt from the sterilization requirement:

(1)

A dog or cat that qualifies for a certified medical exception from a veterinarian; or

(2)

A dog or cat that has not received more than two (2) violations over the prior year and is an exhibition or show animal or service animal.

(d)

It shall be unlawful for anyone to fail to have the animal sterilized and provide proof of sterilization to the department within thirty (30) days from the date of the notice to comply being issued.

(e)

If an owner of animals intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly engages in non-compliance or refusal to comply with any spay/neuter ordinance requirements outlined in this chapter, the department may seek to impound and take ownership of any available pets after following the process outlined in section 5-117.

(Ord. No. 2017-10-05-0755 , § 1, 10-5-17)