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Spay/Neuter Frequently Asked Questions
Louisiana SPCA

The Louisiana SPCA (LA/SPCA) addresses some of the most frequently asked questions we have received regarding the Breeder's Permit/Spay and Neuter Ordinance introduced at the last New Orleans City Council meeting:

What does the proposed ordinance require?Dog owners are encouraged to spay or neuter their dogs if they do not intend to breed the dog. Dog owners who do not spay/neuter will be required to apply for an annual permit and will be asked to provide evidence of annual vaccinations by a licensed veterinarian and a permanent microchip.


Why should the government dictate what I do with my dog, my personal property? The State of Louisiana and Orleans Parish already have laws and ordinances that mandate rabies vaccinations, limit the number of animals per household, and determines the minimum standards of care for a dog. The proposed ordinance does not limit an individual's right to own an intact dog but instead requires proper veterinary care for intact dogs and encourages spaying and neutering of dogs not being bred to reduce animal overpopulation.


Why does this ordinance only focus on dogs? Aren't cats problematic as well? In Orleans Parish, ordinances already exist mandating all cats released from an animal control facility be spay/neutered. This means a cat brought into the shelter as a stray or for another animal control violation, must be altered prior to being returned to its owner. Currently, however, the ordinance is specific only to cats. Dogs impounded or brought in as strays cannot be altered without the consent of the owner. The proposed ordinance will require all dogs impounded or brought in as a roaming stray be returned to their owner only if the owner has a breeder permit or agrees to have it spayed or neutered prior to return.


How will this ordinance be enforced? This ordinance will be enforced in the same manner the rabies license ordinance is enforced. When an animal control officer is investigating a complaint or when an owner reclaims their lost dog, a copy of a breeder permit or proof of spay/neuter will be requested.


Who does this ordinance target? While all residents are strongly encouraged to spay/neuter their animals, the ordinance focuses on compliance from irresponsible pet owners whose dogs are found roaming or are being investigated for other code violations.


Will show dogs, service dogs, hunting dogs, sick or old dogs be required to be spayed or neutered? There are many legitimate reasons why dog owners keep their dogs intact. Responsible pet owners will be allowed to apply for a breeder permit to keep their dogs intact as long as the dog has a microchip, is vaccinated against rabies, parvo and distemper and its living conditions meet the minimum requirements described in the Orleans Parish Codes. Further, a licensed veterinarian can certify that a dog is unfit to undergo surgery and the owner will receive an exemption from the requirements.


How much will a permit cost? How much will a violation cost? An initial permit will cost $50. The annual renewal will cost $20. The fines for violations range from $100 to $500. Revenue generated through permit fees and violation fines will be redirected to animal control to better serve the New Orleans community.Is there a low cost spay/neuter option available? Absolutely! The LA/SPCA offers spay/neuter services for dogs ranging from $75 to $100 and additional discounts are available for senior citizens or low income residents who are unable to afford these fees. Additionally, many private veterinarians are willing to work with clients interested in spaying or neutering their dogs.

Have other cities or parishes that have adopted this type of ordinance been successful?Progressive communities throughout the country have adopted similar ordinances and had tremendous results. Before 1995, the Santa Cruz animal shelter in California warehoused 14,000 animals a year. Today, it takes in about 5,500. Euthanasia has dropped by 50%. More animals get adopted from the shelter today because they can stay longer in their cages -- spaying and neutering laws have resulted in fewer unwanted litters and fewer strays roaming the streets. Lake, Los Angeles and Stanislaus counties followed Santa Cruz's lead, as did the cities of Sacramento, San Bernardino, Houston, Asheville, and Palm Beach.How long will it take to see the impact of this ordinance? Within 12 months the City of New Orleans should begin to see a modest stream of income from the permits and violation fines. By the end of five years, the animal shelter should begin to see a decline in its intake. By the end of 10 years, the animal shelter should begin to report a decline in its euthanasia rates.

Contact your City Council Person today to show your support for this ordinance:Your City Council Person