The city of Corpus Christi implemented its spay and neuter ordinance one year ago, aiming to tackle the issue of stray animals in the community. Although the city issued only 35 permits at that time, local animal services see this as a positive development in addressing the city’s stray animal problem.
Progress Amid Challenges
Corpus Christi Animal Care Services is encouraged by the impact the ordinance has had so far. Miguel Escobar, a representative of Animal Care Services, noted that more residents are complying with the regulations. “We’ve had an influx of individuals purchasing their intact permit as well as more people overall spaying and neutering their pets,” Escobar said.
The ordinance requires pet owners to register unneutered or intact animals with the city for an annual fee of $50. This regulation is designed to ensure better control of the pet population and prevent unwanted litter. For those who may struggle with the costs of spaying or neutering, organizations like the Gulf Coast Humane Society offer assistance to help cover the expenses.
The Role of the Gulf Coast Humane Society
According to Jackie McCollough, Director of Marketing and Development at the Gulf Coast Humane Society, the ordinance is an essential tool in reducing the stray animal population. “It allows Corpus Christi Animal Care Services to address pets that continue to have litters,” McCollough explained. They can tell owners that they are required to spay or neuter their pets, which helps manage the number of strays.”
However, McCollough acknowledged that despite the ordinance being in place for a year, many residents still do not know about its existence. “A lot of people just don’t know about it,” she said. “We try to offer materials at our vaccination clinics and events to spread awareness about the spay and neuter ordinance.”
Consequences for Non-Compliance
The city has made it clear that there are consequences for not following the spay and neuter regulations. Escobar emphasized that pet owners who fail to comply with the ordinance will face penalties. “If the animal is not sterilized, we give the owner a sterilization order. They then have 30 days to show that they have sterilized the animal or provide a veterinarian’s recommendation not to do so at that time. Failure to meet these requirements will result in citations,” he said.
The Corpus Christi Animal Care Services website provides more information for those who need to complete a permit form.
Raising Awareness for a Better Future
As Corpus Christi reaps the benefits of the spay and neuter ordinance, city officials and animal welfare organizations work to raise awareness and inform more pet owners. By encouraging responsible pet ownership and offering resources, the city hopes to reduce the stray population further and improve the well-being of animals throughout the community.