§ 4-19. Spay/neuter program.

Florida Statute § 823.15 expresses a determination of the Florida Legislature that uncontrolled breeding of dogs and cats leads to unwanted animals, strays, animal suffering, destruction of animals at great expense to the community constituting a nuisance and public health hazard. The board of county commissioners hereby finds that:

(1)

Marion County is committed to finding humane and cost effective means of reducing the production of unneeded and unwanted puppies and kittens by:

a.

Assuring compliance with the Florida State Statute providing the sterilization of all adopted and rescued domestic animals prior to their release from Marion County Animal Center. [F.S. § 823.15(2)(a)]

b.

Providing subsidized targeted spay/neuter services to the pets of Marion County citizens by means of the neuter commuter and offering public surgery services within the Marion County Animal Center. Targeted groups include:

1.

Income qualified pet owners.

2.

Community cats.

3.

Large breed dogs.

4.

Pets in high intake areas.

c.

Partnering with animal rescue organizations to help meet their spay/neuter obligations.

d.

Providing licensed veterinarians to perform these services.

(Ord. No. 11-55, § 1, 10-18-11; Ord. No. 16-34, § 1, 10-4-2016; Ord. No. 18-21, § 1, 8-7-2018)

Editor's note

See editor's note for § 4-16.