EDMONDS, Wash. – Animal shelters across Puget Sound are overwhelmed with an influx of animals, prompting the Edmonds City Council to take action with a new ban on backyard breeding.
The ordinance passed by a narrow 4-3 vote Tuesday night. It aims to reduce the number of animals in shelters by outlawing the deliberate breeding, advertising and selling of companion animals (dogs, cats, and rabbits) within city limits.
Edmonds Councilmember Jenna Nand, who authored the legislation, tells FOX 13 it’s the first of its kind here in Washington.
“Animals are paying the price for the cruelty that accompanies uncontrolled backyard breeding,” Nand said. “This entire legislation is entirely towards trying to encourage people to spay and neuter and not produce excess animals.”
Violators face a $1,000 fine per litter, although animal control officers may waive the fee if owners agree to sterilize their pets.
There are also exemptions for individuals with pets that got …