The Pasadena City Council has ordered an ordinance drafted for mandatory spaying or neutering of pit bulls and pit bull mixes. The local city is the latest to proceed against breeding of the pit bulls, associated with injuries and deaths.
The city has been studying the issue since four pit bulls escaped from an unsecured yard and attacked several people. Police shot two of the dogs. Under state law, cities cannot ban a specific breed, but can mandate sterilization.
According to the Pasadena Humane Society, pit bulls fill a large amount of space at the shelter, because they are seldom adopted. Most of the dogs are euthanized or given to pit bull rescue groups.
The new law would require spaying or neutering unless the animal is less than eight weeks old, has lived in the city less than a month, or has a physical reason prohibiting sterilization. Dogs are also exempted if registered as a show dog or if the owner has applied for a permit as a breeder. Pit bulls being bred will be allowed one litter a year.
The city will also explore sources of funding to help PHS offer spay and neuter services for the dogs.
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