Las Cruces City Council proposes comprehensive revisions to animal care ordinance

In a significant move to enhance animal welfare, the Las Cruces City Council convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss a comprehensive overhaul of the municipal code concerning companion animals. The proposed ordinance aims to repeal and replace Chapter 7, introducing stricter regulations designed to protect animals and promote responsible pet ownership.

One of the key revisions includes the implementation of mandatory spay and neuter requirements for companion animals that have been found in violation of restraint laws two or more times within a year. This approach seeks to address the issue of overpopulation and reduce the number of animals running at large. Exemptions will be available for certain cases, such as when a veterinarian deems sterilization unsafe for the animal.

The ordinance also introduces new restrictions on tethering, allowing animals to be tethered for no more than one hour within a 24-hour period. This measure is intended to mitigate the risks associated with prolonged tethering, which can lead to aggressive behavior in animals. Enforcement of this rule will be complaint-driven, focusing on the health and safety of the animals rather than strict monitoring.

Further enhancements to the ordinance include more robust prohibitions against animal abuse, neglect, and abandonment. Notably, practices such as declawing and defocalization will be more strictly regulated, and individuals convicted of multiple violations may face restrictions on pet ownership.

The council also discussed amendments related to community cats, proposing that cats impounded three or more times would not be returned to their original location. This change aims to improve the chances of adoption for these animals, recognizing signs of domestication after repeated captures.

The revisions reflect a broader commitment to improving public health and safety while reducing unnecessary euthanasia rates in the city. The council emphasized the importance of community involvement in shaping these regulations, acknowledging the efforts of local advocates who have long pushed for reform.

As the council prepares to vote on the proposed ordinance, the discussions highlight a pivotal moment for animal welfare in Las Cruces. If approved, these changes could significantly alter the landscape of pet ownership and animal care in the community, fostering a culture of responsibility and compassion towards companion animals.