BAKERSFIELD, California (KBAK/KBFX) – Kern County could soon require pet owners to license, spay or neuter their dogs if officials accept a proposed amendment by the Kern County Animal Services Commissioner.
Back in early October, the Board of Supervisors received a proposal for animal regulations from Kern County Animal Services Chairman Gary Blackburn.
As the number of animals in shelters continues to grow, Blackburn hopes to reduce the number of pets euthanized each year.
The board’s goal is to review and approve that decision.
In many cities and towns across the United States, a dog license may be an annual requirement.
According to Kern County Animal Services, dogs older than four months must be licensed, but for cats, it’s recommended but not required.
“In every city, every town, the entire state, and really most of the country, you have to have a dog license. It’s the law, it’s required, and in Kern County, it’s like every municipality, you can license your animal as a spayed or neutered pet or a non-spayed or neutered pet,” said Nick Cullen, director of Kern County Animal Services.
Cullen said the only way to reduce the population is to clarify the requirements of the proposition.
“Kern County, like the state of California, has a pet overpopulation problem, so many dogs and cats end up in our shelters. The only proven way to reduce the number of animals entering our shelters is to reduce the number of animals in our communities, and the only way to really do that is to spay and neuter,” Karen added.
Board Supervisor Jeff Flores said in a statement to Eyewitness News:
“I commend the Kern County Animal Services Board for their tireless work and continued commitment to promoting animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. Their recent advisory policy recommendations to our board deserve the attention and analysis of all stakeholders.”
But there are ways to reduce animal euthanasia.
Kern County Animal Services held its annual large adoption event at Strammler Park on Saturday, which included resources for working with pets being adopted into their forever homes.
Lucky’s Crew Animal Rescue is just one of many rescue groups that set up adoption centers at the park, hoping to bring more attention to their adoptable animals.
“This is our first time participating in this event and we are here with others hoping to find homes for some of these dogs, just like we do every day at Lucky’s Crew. It’s great to see so many people here, there are so many people and visitors, so hopefully this situation will calm down,” said Kelly Gould of Lucky Crew Animal Rescue.
According to the Board of Supervisors, no date has been set for the matter.
Supervisor Flores said he looks forward to hearing from the public in the future on how to better meet Kern County’s animal welfare goals.
