"Standards of Care" Ordinance October 2001, advocates sought support from New Orleans City Council members to remove the 4-pet limit currently on the books. No determination was made at that time. On December 6, 2001 the Council adopted M-01-805 to create an ad-hoc Committee to evaluate the issue. The Committee included representatives of the City Council, LA/SPCA, NOPD, HANO, the Health Dept., Dept. of Safety and Permits, Humane Society of Louisiana, Spaymart, SLVA and Council Research.
The Committee discussed problems related to animals and humans in an urban environment (e.g. feral cats, breeding), the pros and cons of removing the limit and the consequences of its removal. All agreed more work was needed to address the complex issues related to limits, breeding, etc., and the Committee developed a proposed ordinance that addresses these problems while providing agencies with the needed language to enforce standards regardless of the number of animals.
On June 20, 2002, the City Council unanimously passed the ordinance. The basic standards of animal care are as follows: Clean and fresh water must be provided at all times. Medical attention is required if an animal is sick. It is unlawful to leave an animal unattended in a vehicle. Primary shelter must protect from heat and cold, be free of debris, be large enough for the animal to stand up and turn around in and be weatherproof. Animal areas shall be cleaned regularly so that fecal matter is disposed of so not to attract rodents/insects. If multiple animals are present, each must have its own water, food and shelter. No animal shall be tethered as a primary means of confinement. Animals shall be considered abandoned if their needs are not met for more than 24 hours. When outdoor temperatures reach freezing levels, all small domestic animals must be moved indoors.
The ad-hoc Committee will continue to work to develop protocols that will address issues related to animal breeders, collectors and professional animal businesses. They will also evaluate and revise outdated animal-related ordinances found in Chapter 18 of the city code.
This is a victory for the animals of Orleans Parish and the people who are trying to protect them.
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