Changes On Way For Dog and Cat Owners in Shreveport Area

Caddo Parish leaders pass a measure requiring dogs and cats to be spayed or neutered beginning July 1. The Commission voted 10-1 for this measure. Todd Hopkins is the lone member to say “no”.

The goal of this change is to reduce the rising number of stray and unwanted animals in the parish who ultimately have to be put down.

Who Has Been Pushing for This Ordinance?

Animal rights groups have been pushing for the change as a way to address the growing problem of stray animals all across the community. This new ordinance will impact all of Caddo Parish including Shreveport which is also served by Caddo Animal Control. The parish takes in more than 4,000 animals every year and many of them have to be euthanized.

There will be some exceptions and parish leaders say responsible pet owners will not be targeted by this ordinance. Animal control officers will advise pet owners of the policy, but they will not seize people’s pets.

What Are the Exceptions to This Mandatory Spay/Neuter Ordinance?

1)    Any dog or cat that is registered with the officially recognized pedigree/kennel club associations (American Kennel Club, American Dog Breeding Association, etc.), providing that the owner can provide annual proof of membership and participation in show at least once a year in events sponsored by the organization.

2)    Animals with a chronic health condition or disease whose health will be seriously or permanently affected by a spay/neuter procedure, providing that the owner provides official documentation by a licensed veterinarian.

3)    Animal establishment owners as well as those who have intact and breeding permits, providing that these animals are microchipped and that the permit is obtained annually.

The parish will monitor the effects of this ordinance on the animal population and will evaluate it at the end of the two-year period. The ordinance will end June 30, 2024, unless reenacted as a permanent ordinance.