1987-12-07 Workshop Meeting and Called Regular Meeting

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e e ANIMAL CONTROL REPORT Page 8 of 9 Amnesty Period Procrastination is often a part of human nature, and deadlines are difficult to meet for various reasons. In examining the proposed 30 or 60 day "amnesty period" for compliance under the new animal ordinance, City staff found that 60 working days would be a reasonable amount of time for individuals concerned about the care of their animals. The 60 working days would allow sufficient time for both animal owner and City staff to register an animal. It was found that in many instances 30 or 60 working days generally represents the "norm" for compliance in city type actions. Since the ordinance is fairly new, the sixty-day waiting amnesty per iod would be adequate, and allow both staff and pet owners sufficient time to vaccinate, spay, or neuter animal(s) if desired; schedule personal time to visit City Hall and register animal(s); and, other unusual circumstances. Recommendations Based on the report's findings, the following recommendations are suggested for City Council approval: o Since City veterinarians have a difference of oplnlon in the usage of their rabies tag for the purpose of animal identification, it is recommended that the City continue issuing its metal license tags. This action will insure that registered animal(s) have been vaccinated, and that direct access to information concerning a pet owner is available when requested by the City's Humane Division. o It is recommended that the City pursue the concept of "microchip" animal tagging for implementation in future budget years. The "mic roc hip " animal tag is a futuristic tool with a growing market demand. o The neutering or spaying of animals helps to control the unwanted animal population, and as reflected in the report, v ar iou s c it ies prov ide this incent i ve to the public. It is therefore recommended that the City waive the registration fee for pet owner's who neuter or spay their animal(s). However, an initial fee will be required, and pet owner's must continue to register their pet(s) annually to verify vaccination of the animal( s) .