A Longview committee dedicated to enhancing animal welfare has put forth recommendations for new ordinances aimed at addressing the city’s pet overpopulation and a rise in violent animal encounters. The Longview Animal Shelter Advisory Committee endorsed proposed measures on Tuesday, developed by local animal welfare attorney Kelly Heitkamp. However, these ordinances will only be enacted if approved by the Longview City Council, which is currently reviewing the proposals. A council vote is anticipated in the coming months, according to Richard Yeakley, the city’s public information officer.
This latest meeting is part of a broader initiative to tackle the city’s increasing issues with stray animals and aggressive behavior. The conversation gained urgency following the tragic death of Kenneth Pierson, 46, who was attacked by dogs in February while cycling on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
Recent data reveals a surge in loose animals and reported bites in Longview over the past five years. Local shelters and rescue organizations are overwhelmed, struggling to manage the high volume of animals, while community members express growing safety concerns about loose dogs.
Proposed Ordinances:
Spaying and Neutering Requirement: The first ordinance would classify owning a pet over six months old that is not spayed or neutered as a municipal offense. There would be exemptions, including an “intact pet permit” for which residents could apply. This permit would require basic animal information and photos, with a nominal fee. The permit would be valid for one, two, or three years. Licensed breeders could also apply for a permit to keep unaltered animals under specific conditions. Additionally, animals deemed medically unsuitable for spaying or neutering by a veterinarian would be exempt.
Microchip Requirement: The second proposal mandates microchipping for pets over six months old. These microchips, no more intrusive than a vaccination, would help identify and locate lost pets.
Rabies Vaccination Frequency: The third proposal suggests aligning the city’s rabies vaccination requirement with state law, reducing the frequency from annual to every three years, reflecting recent research indicating extended immunity from the vaccine.
Heitkamp advocates these changes as essential to controlling pet overpopulation and supporting responsible pet ownership. “Spaying and neutering is a proven solution to our overpopulation issue,” she said. “Our goal is to address these challenges through proactive measures and community support.”
She emphasized that while spaying and neutering is not mandated, the proposed ordinances offer various options for pet care. The Spay it Forward program, which provides vouchers to offset costs, complements this effort.
The committee will resume its regular quarterly meetings, with Heitkamp expressing optimism about the community’s support for the proposed ordinances. “We have an opportunity to make a lasting impact,” she said. “Why wouldn’t we take it?”
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