Take a collective stride to better life for our animal companions
For years, Bakersfield has witnessed a troubling surge in challenges related to pet overpopulation, as evidenced by the alarming statistics from animal care professionals and anecdotal evidence from caring community members. Tonight, the Bakersfield City Council has an opportunity to enact a series of ordinances to address the issue, after years of committee meetings, community conversations, and growing concern. It is time to take action.
In 2023 alone, Bakersfield experienced more than 15,000 calls for service for animal control — a 20% increase from the previous year. Animal impounds are on a concerning rise, escalating from 3,291 in 2021 to more than 5,000 in 2023. Owner surrender requests have surged by 75%, averaging 14 surrenders per month compared to eight per month in 2022. While the Bakersfield Animal Care Center has managed to save over 4,800 canines this year, the live release rate has seen a downward trend from 84.28% in 2020 to a projected 62.36% in 2023.
As responsible and compassionate members of this community, it is imperative that we address the issue of pet overpopulation through four proactive measures.
1. The first proposed ordinance takes a targeted approach to break the cycle of unchecked breeding. It requires animals impounded more than once to be spayed and neutered prior to redemption by their owners. This measure aims to reduce the strain on our animal care resources and prevent the perpetuation of unintentional litters.
2. The second ordinance mandates that any person operating a kennel must obtain a license. This not only ensures responsible kennel management but also contributes to mitigating issues associated with irresponsible breeding practices.
3. The third proposed ordinance takes a broad yet crucial step by requiring all dogs over six months to be spayed and neutered, unless the owner qualifies for an exemption or obtains an “unaltered animal certification.” This sweeping measure addresses the core issue of uncontrolled breeding, promoting responsible pet ownership and reducing the number of unwanted litters.
4. Recognizing the importance of responsible breeding practices, the fourth ordinance mandates that individuals wishing to breed a dog must first obtain a breeder permit. This ensures that breeders adhere to ethical standards, promoting the health and well-being of both the breeding animals and their offspring.
The City Council’s proactive approach, as reflected in these four proposed ordinances, demonstrates a commitment to creating a more humane and sustainable future for Bakersfield. By addressing the multifaceted challenges of pet overpopulation through targeted and comprehensive measures, we can pave the way for a community where responsible pet ownership is not only encouraged but also legally reinforced. In doing so, we will take a collective stride toward a brighter, more compassionate Bakersfield for both humans and our beloved animal companions.