Kansas City, MO Seeking Public Input on Animal Control Laws

Officials in Kansas City, Missouri, are seeking input from residents on what they think could improve the city’s animal control laws.

The city has set up a website with a message board to comment on things that are working in the law, and constructive suggestions for changes.

This is a great opportunity for those who reside or who actively participate in events in Kansas City to educate the city and provide input on the many provisions in current law, including:

• Dog ownership limits (4 dogs without permit, up to 10 with hobby permit, and up to 25 with commercial permit in certain zoned areas) – The AKC believes that arbitrary limits on dog ownership are ineffective, difficult to enforce, and do not address the importance of responsible and humane treatment of dogs regardless of how many someone chooses to own.  View more on AKC’s position in our Legislative Action Center “Limit Laws” page.
• Mandatory sterilization of all dogs deemed to be “pit bulls” – including American Staffordshire Terriers and Staffordshire Bull Terriers – unless it can be proven they are “show dogs” by showing pedigree information and proof of “show dog registration”, and permits for all owners of “pit bulls” – The AKC opposes any law that singles out specific breeds or types of dogs.  This targets dog owners just for the dog they choose to own, rather than focusing on a dog’s specific actions.  Find more talking points and information on AKC’s position in our Legislative Action Center “Breed-Specific/Dangerous Dog Laws” page.
• Licensing and inspections of kennels (including hobby kennels, where more than 4 animals over the age of 6 months are kept and the licensee is breeding or showing dogs or cats) – This could require those who keep a small number of dogs in their homes to open up private property to inspection, and it also still imposes ownership limits.  The AKC supports reasonable and enforceable laws that protect the welfare of dogs and do not restrict the rights of breeders and owners who meet their responsibilities.  Check out AKC’s Breeding Regulations and Restrictions page on the Legislative Action Center for more talking points and information on AKC’s position.

More Information:

• Read the city’s press release for more current information on the law and enforcement, and background on this request for public input.
• Review Kansas City’s animal control ordinance to help frame your comments and input.
• Visit www.kcmomentum.org and post your comments and suggestions in the message board asking the question“What specific changes to the Chapter 14 ordinance do you believe would improve the protection of animal health and safety in Kansas City, while also protecting the rights of all citizens?”  Please keep your comments constructive and polite, and take a moment to thank the city for allowing public input on these important issues.