NBC Los Angeles reports that LA has approved a temporary halt on dog breeding permits.
Los Angeles City Council Approves Temporary Moratorium on Dog Breeding Permits to Address Shelter Overpopulation
Los Angeles City Council Enacts Temporary Moratorium on Dog Breeding Permits to Address Shelter Overpopulation
In a unanimous vote, the Los Angeles City Council has approved a temporary moratorium on dog breeding permits in an effort to combat overpopulation at the city’s six animal shelters. The ordinance, which was passed with a 13-0 vote, will remain in effect until shelter capacity drops below 75% for three consecutive months.
The decision comes as city officials grapple with a surge in purebred dogs being dropped off at shelters, leading to overcrowded and unacceptable conditions for the animals. Councilwoman Eunisses Hernandez, who spearheaded the motion, emphasized the need for immediate action to address the crisis.
Hernandez pointed to various factors contributing to the shelter overcrowding, including a lack of pet-friendly rental units, an influx of animals following the COVID-19 pandemic, and a failure to spay and neuter pets. The moratorium specifically targets dog breeding permits, with over 1,100 permits issued in the first half of 2023 alone.
Animal rights advocates, including PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange, have praised the council’s decision as a crucial step towards curbing the homeless-animal overpopulation crisis. The move is seen as a proactive measure to prevent further suffering among shelter animals and alleviate the strain on shelter staff.
Council members also highlighted the financial benefits of the moratorium, noting that housing and euthanizing animals come at a significant cost to the city. They urged Angelenos to adopt pets from shelters rather than turning to breeders, emphasizing the diverse and deserving animals awaiting loving homes.
Looking ahead, city officials are exploring additional measures to improve shelter conditions and reduce the homeless-animal population. Proposals for a foster stipend and increased outreach efforts are under consideration to further support animal welfare initiatives.
The moratorium on dog breeding permits represents a critical first step in addressing the challenges facing Los Angeles’ animal shelters. As the city works towards becoming a ‘no-kill’ environment, the council’s decision sets a positive precedent for future animal welfare policies and practices.
