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 tackle the overpopulation crisis at the city’s six animal shelters. The ordinance, which was passed with a 13-0 vote, will be in effect until shelter capacity drops to or below 75% for three consecutive months.

The decision comes as shelters are struggling to cope with the influx of purebred dogs being dropped off, 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 crises at the shelters.

Hernandez highlighted various factors contributing to the shelter overpopulation, including a lack of pet-friendly rental units, an increase in abandoned pets post-COVID-19, and a failure to spay and neuter animals. 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 crisis in the city. The move is seen as a proactive measure to prevent further suffering among animals in shelters and reduce the financial burden on the city.

Council members emphasized the importance of encouraging pet adoption from shelters rather than purchasing animals from breeders. They also acknowledged the need for additional measures to improve shelter conditions and ensure adequate funding for animal services.

As the city works towards becoming a ‘no-kill’ city, officials are exploring initiatives such as providing stipends to incentivize fostering animals in shelters. The moratorium on dog breeding permits is seen as a significant step in the right direction towards achieving this goal and alleviating the strain on shelter staff and animals in need of homes.