Debate at council chambers over Austin Animal Center rule change draws volunteers, veterinarians and adopters

A high-profile and emotional debate unfolded during public comment over a proposed resolution to change city policy at the Austin Animal Center (AAC). The ordinance under consideration would allow AAC veterinarians to perform spay procedures on visibly pregnant animals without the 48-hour advance notice to rescue partners that is currently required by city policy.

Opposing viewpoints at the microphone - Rescue organizations and many adopters told council the existing notification requirement gives rescue groups time to pull pregnant animals and care for litters (foster families and adopters said they frequently adopt animals born in foster care). They argued the ordinance would increase the number of fetuses intentionally killed in shelters and could undermine the city's "no-kill" metrics and public trust. Several…