El Paso, Texas – The City of El Paso Department of Public Health’s Animal Services Program is reminding the public that several revisions to the Title 7 Ordinance regarding animals in the city will go into effect on January 1, 2011. Earlier this year, City Council approved a budget increase of $250,000 in order to hire more staff and make changes necessary to educate the public as well as to enforce the ordinance. A campaign is already underway where educators will give outreach presentations to local groups and agencies to help residents understand the existing laws and the revisions.
“I am confident these changes, including an increase in staff, will be a turning point in developing a more solid partnership with the community. It will take a united effort between pet owners and our Department to successfully reduce the number of unwanted animals in our community” said Michael Hill, Health Department Director.
Among the changes are the following regulations that deal with the sale or transfer of animals:
- You cannot sell or offer to sell or transfer puppies or kittens that are under eight weeks old.
- If you are selling or transferring a pet that is less than a year old and it has not been spayed or neutered, you cannot charge more than $50.00 unless you have proof that you spent more than that amount to take care of it (less the cost of food.)
- If you are selling or transferring a pet that is less than a year old and it has been spayed or neutered, you cannot charge more than $150.00 unless you have proof that you spent more than that amount to take care of it.
Residents are also reminded that a litter permit is required and the permit number must appear on any and all advertising.
A complete list of changes to the ordinance as well as an easy to understand brochure can be found on the Department’s website located at: www.elpasotexas.gov/health
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