Modifications to Sterilization Requirements for Cats & Dogs

The "Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act" prohibits any animal shelter or pet animal rescue (facility) from releasing a dog or cat to a prospective owner unless the animal has been sterilized, except in cases in which sterilization would jeopardize the life or health of the dog or cat. A facility in an area with limited access to licensed veterinarians may be granted an exemption from the sterilization requirement by the commissioner of agriculture (commissioner). The bill:

• Removes the exemption from the sterilization requirement due to the health of the animal; and
• Prohibits facilities that import unsterilized dogs or cats into the state of Colorado from receiving an exemption from the commissioner.
  (Note: This summary applies to the reengrossed version of this bill as introduced in the second house.)