County toughens regulations on pet population

J. Craig Anderson

Wednesday, Nov. 9, 2005 | 8:10 a.m.

Clark County officials have resolved to crack down on irresponsible pet owners who let their fertile animals roam and breed.

After hearing impassioned pleas from a variety of animal lovers, the County Commission voted unanimously Nov. 1 to toughen regulations against unsterilized dogs and cats to reduce the county's animal overpopulation problem.

Under the new rules, all pet owners must spay or neuter their dogs and cats unless they hold a "pet fancier's permit," which costs $25 and must be renewed each year.

The old ordinance didn't require a permit unless a resident owned more than three cats or dogs.

County officials have said they do not plan to conduct impromptu home inspections to enforce the new rules, but anyone reported for animal control violations would be forced to comply.

The county will go to Justice Court to seek an order to get the pet sterilized, officials said, with the exception of guide dogs and dogs used in law enforcement.

J. Craig Anderson can be reached at 259-2320 or at craig@lasvegassun.com.

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