01/29/2014
I would like to introduce the following topics for consideration and discussion by the Bossier Police Jury, the Spirit of Enterprise Award Winners past and future, media, political parties and their representatives, elected officials, as well as the people of Bossier Parish. That is the introduction of a mandatory spay/neuter law. This should be implemented for all companion animals/pets, specifically cats and dogs. Included in the considerations and subsequent discussions should be the rational/need for a law, possible permits to be issued in special circumstances i.e., when the spay/neuter would be life threatening to the animal (with accompaniment of a vets recommendation a certificate of exclusion could be issued) or in the case of a breeder of purebred animals. In the case of breeders of certified dogs/cats a fee could be imposed for the issuance of a permit to allow a limited number of animals to be breed, the number of litters could limited for the health and well being of the mother for a period of no less than 18 months. At the permit application renewable yearly for the breeders of cats or dogs a further requirement and easily obtained copy of the certificate issued by the recognized breeders association for each birth of the breeders animal. An additional required documentation of the adopted/sold puppies or kittens detailing the birth and death of each animal, with a name and address of the purchaser of said animal/s. Documentation and follow up of all animals bred should be completed for follow-up on the quality of continued responsibility of both the breeder and the animals in question. The permit cost should help to cover the cost of spay and neuter programs for low income and feral cat populations, and provide funds for the continued application process.
Why a spay and neuter law?
Mandatory spay and neuter for all pets in Bossier Parish.
The rational for the mandatory spay and neuter program are many and include some of the following;
1. The HSUS estimates that animal shelters care for 6-8 million dogs and cats every year in the United States, of whom approximately 3-4 million are euthanized , To help reduce the number of homeless animals, The HSUS works to promote responsible pet ownership and to reduce pet overpopulation through public education, legislation, and support for sterilization programs (Source the Humane Society of the United States)
2. A decrease in the number of stolen animals to be used for breeding or fighting purposes.
3. Decreased financial burden in the (long term) future of our Animal Control budget.
4. A visionary stance that would end the trauma inflicted by the caging, and killing of animals who through no fault of their own were brought into the community only to face in many instances caging and death. Thus also allowing the Animal Control officer reduced emotional stress and burdens that are often associated with the practice of euthanasia. The No Kill Advocacy Center states, in their Model Legislation to Improve the Performance and Life-Saving of Animal Shelters The Companion Animal Protection Act that:
“Today, Americans of all walks of life want to build a better world for animals. There are now 95 million cats and 70 million dogs in American homes. We spend $50 billion on their care, an amount which is growing every year even as other economic sectors decline.
And giving to animal related charities is the fastest growing segment in
American philanthropy. This embrace of animals cuts across all political, economic, and
social demographics. Saving lives is not only good public policy, it is also good bipartisan
politics... CAPA improves staff well-being. Studies show that staff members responsible for killing animals in shelters are vulnerable to emotional trauma, exhaustion, and burnout. CAPA would spare staff from killing animals when those animals have
readily available lifesaving options.
I have provided a copy for you of the CAPA (or Companion Animal Protection Act) to view or you can access this and more information on-line.
In the “Voice of Bussiness ofBossier Parish” the 2012 Legislative link states “During the 2012 legislative session, the Bossier Chamber of Commerce will advocate for education reform, economic development and our military community.
I purpose that the enactment of a mandatory spay/neuter law will keep those values for 2012 and improve upon them with the enactment of a mandatory spay and neuter law.
Okay so now I open my self up for your comments, suggestions, and responses. Yes what I'm really after is your support! thank you.
