The Joplin Globe, Joplin, MO

Local News

August 25, 2008

<img src="http://www.joplinglobeonline.com/images/zope/new.gif" border=0> 10:33 a.m. Springfield to consider fine for pets who have litters

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) — The city council is considering fines and permits for people who try to sell or give away unwanted puppies and kittens born to their animals.

The proposals would require anyone who wants to give away or sell litters to pay the city $100 for a “litter permit.”

The Springfield City Council will consider the permit, and a related “breeder permit” in an effort to encourage owners to have their dogs and cats spayed or neutered in order to reduce the number of unwanted animals in the city.

The two ordinances are similar to those already used in St. Joseph, which has had the permits since 1995.

In St. Joseph, the litter permit costs $100. A $20 breeder permit allows a pet owner to breed a dog or cat once a year. Pet owners who ignore the rules face fines up to $500.

Brandi Crawshaw of Springfield, whose dog Comet delivered nine puppies after briefly running away from home, said the permits aren’t a bad idea but the cost should be reduced.

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