L.A.’s Fees for Breeders, Unaltered Pets Take Big Leap

One of the toughest spay and neuter ordinances in the nation took effect Wednesday in Los Angeles, increasing license fees for unaltered dogs and pets owned by breeders.

Under the ordinance, fees for dogs not spayed or neutered jump from $30 to $100 a year, and annual breeder license fees for dogs and cats increase from $50 to $100.

The license fee for dogs that are spayed or neutered remains at $10. Although cats do not require a license, Animal Services officials suggest that owners keep them indoors or have them spayed or neutered.

The ordinance is intended to hold pet owners responsible for 47,000 animals that were euthanized in city shelters last year, said Jackie David, an Animal Services spokeswoman.

Animal control officers will canvass neighborhoods, reminding dog owners to get licenses for their pets or have them altered. Failure to comply within 45 days will result in an automatic $500 fine. The owners of unsterilized cats found outdoors are also subject to a $500 fine. After 15 more days a misdemeanor charge, carrying a $1,000 fine and/or six months in jail, will be filed. Penalties are the same for breeders who fail to get breeders’ licenses.