Tacoma proposes new animal control measures to combat overpopulation crisis

During a recent meeting of the Tacoma Government Performance and Finance Committee, significant discussions centered on addressing the pressing issue of animal overpopulation in the community. The committee reviewed proposed updates to the animal control code, aiming to alleviate the strain on local animal shelters and resources.

The meeting highlighted a troubling trend: the number of animal complaints has surged from 758 in 2022 to 1,467 in 2023. This increase has led to overcrowded shelters, prompting officials to consider drastic measures, including the potential euthanasia of animals due to lack of space. The committee emphasized the need for proactive solutions to manage the growing animal population effectively.

One of the key proposals discussed was a mandate requiring that any dog or cat impounded by animal control must be altered before being redeemed by their owner. This measure aims to reduce the number of unaltered animals that contribute to overpopulation. Additionally, the committee proposed raising licensing fees for unaltered pets significantly, with the intention of incentivizing pet owners to spay or neuter their animals. For example, the fee for an unaltered cat would increase from $65 to $175.

The committee also introduced a new licensing category for pigs, acknowledging their growing popularity as pets in the area. Furthermore, they proposed changes to the maximum number of pets allowed per household, limiting the number of unaltered animals to encourage responsible pet ownership.

Another innovative approach discussed was the introduction of a community cat program, which would allow for the management of feral cat populations through a trap-neuter-return strategy. This initiative aims to reduce the number of stray cats while recognizing the role of caretakers in the community.

The committee's discussions reflect a broader commitment to animal welfare and responsible pet ownership in Tacoma. By implementing these changes, officials hope to create a more sustainable environment for both pets and residents, ultimately enhancing the quality of life in the community. The next steps will involve gathering feedback from external stakeholders and finalizing the proposed code changes to address the urgent needs of Tacoma's animal population.