Fresno County holds first hearing on new breeder permit ordinance to curb dog and cat overpopulation

Fresno County supervisors on June 24 held a first hearing on amendments to the County ordinance code (Title 9) that would create a comprehensive dog and cat breeding permit and enforcement regime, and voted to advance the ordinance for further action.

The proposal, introduced by supervisors and developed with public health officials, Fresno Humane and other stakeholders, would require individuals who breed dogs or cats to obtain a breeder permit, limit the number of litters a licensed breeder may produce each year, require permit numbers be included in sales advertising, and increase penalties for unlicensed breeding. The amendment package was described by sponsors as a response to repeated hoarding and illegal breeding operations that, they said, are overwhelming local shelters and creating…