McAllen Considers New Animal Ordinance
McAllen, TX — In response to recent high-profile animal hoarding cases, the City of McAllen is considering a new ordinance to limit the number of cats and dogs that can be housed in a single residence. This move aims to address public health and welfare concerns for both residents and animals.
Proposed Ordinance Details
The initial proposal sets a cap of four (4) adult cats or dogs, or a combination thereof, per residence. Residents wishing to exceed this number would need to apply for an Excess Animal Permit. The ordinance also includes provisions for permit issuance based on factors such as space, adequate food and water, shelter, sanitary conditions, noise level, and up-to-date vaccinations.
Meeting Highlights
During the city council meeting on July 22, 2024, the ordinance was reviewed and some recommendations were made:
Cap Increase Consideration: Commissioners discussed increasing the cap from four to six or even eight animals per residence.
Permit Fee: The proposed fee for the Excess Animal Permit was $50. However, this fee was debated, with some suggesting it be reduced or eliminated altogether.
Exclusions for Foster Animals: Commissioner Victor "Seby" Haddad proposed that foster animals should not be counted towards the cap, as they are typically temporary.
Emphasis on Spay and Neuter Programs: Many comments surrounding the importance of implementing robust spay and neuter programs.
City Management's Input
City Manager Roy Ramirez explained that the ordinance would provide an opportunity to engage with residents who have large numbers of animals and offer neighbors a chance to report concerns. Ramirez noted that significant improvements have been made in animal care over the past few years, with further advancements expected.
Revisions will be made and an updated version will be brought in the upcoming session or the next.
McAllen, TX — In response to recent high-profile animal hoarding cases, the City of McAllen is considering a new ordinance to limit the number of cats and dogs that can be housed in a single residence. This move aims to address public health and welfare concerns for both residents and animals.
Proposed Ordinance Details
The initial proposal sets a cap of four (4) adult cats or dogs, or a combination thereof, per residence. Residents wishing to exceed this number would need to apply for an Excess Animal Permit. The ordinance also includes provisions for permit issuance based on factors such as space, adequate food and water, shelter, sanitary conditions, noise level, and up-to-date vaccinations.
Meeting Highlights
During the city council meeting on July 22, 2024, the ordinance was reviewed and some recommendations were made:
Cap Increase Consideration: Commissioners discussed increasing the cap from four to six or even eight animals per residence.
Permit Fee: The proposed fee for the Excess Animal Permit was $50. However, this fee was debated, with some suggesting it be reduced or eliminated altogether.
Exclusions for Foster Animals: Commissioner Victor "Seby" Haddad proposed that foster animals should not be counted towards the cap, as they are typically temporary.
Emphasis on Spay and Neuter Programs: Many comments surrounding the importance of implementing robust spay and neuter programs.
City Management's Input
City Manager Roy Ramirez explained that the ordinance would provide an opportunity to engage with residents who have large numbers of animals and offer neighbors a chance to report concerns. Ramirez noted that significant improvements have been made in animal care over the past few years, with further advancements expected.
Revisions will be made and an updated version will be brought in the upcoming session or the next.
2 months ago
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