05/28/2026
Important new information to know regarding stray, cats and dogs.
Baltimore County’s new animal welfare and public safety legislation is now officially in effect! One of the many updates included in the legislation strengthens redemption sterilization requirements for stray animals reclaimed from BCAS.
What does this mean?
If your pet arrives at BCAS intact (not spayed/neutered), the animal will be sterilized before leaving our facility unless specific exemption criteria are met.
To redeem an animal, owners must:
• Provide proof of ownership
• Pay applicable impoundment fees
• Permit BCAS to microchip and spay/neuter the animal
A spay/neuter exemption may be considered ONLY if ALL of the following apply:
✔ The animal is microchipped and registered with current owner information
✔ The owner redeems the animal within 72 hours
✔ Written documentation is provided showing the animal is either:
• A working dog/cat, OR
• Necessary for lawful breeding purposes
At this time, acceptable documentation may include:
🐾 Working animal certifications/documentation (law enforcement, military, search & rescue, farm work, service animals, etc.)
🐾 Business licensing and proof of good standing for breeding operations
If our veterinarians determine they cannot safely complete the surgery due to medical findings, age, etc. then the animal will be exempt.
Please note:
Emotional support animals do not qualify under the current working animal exemption standards.
As we continue implementing this new legislation, portions of the exemption review process may evolve as needed.
