Macon’s Mandatory Spay/Neuter Ordinance Approved

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Getting animals spayed and/or neutered is now mandatory in Macon city limits.

In a 8 -5 vote on Tuesday night, council members passed the ordinance, requiring cats and dogs under the age of 6 months be sterilized.

In the ordinance, it’s written that first time violators will receive a warning and from there they could be fined up to $500.

Some of the controversy surrounding the council’s decision included how the law will be enforced. At previous meetings, council member Henry Gibson openly opposed the ordinance stating that there are enough animal ordinances already in place. He was not at Tuesday’s meeting.

Council member Nancy White, said there are several exemptions in the ordinance, including special breeders and certain recognized shelters.

“It’s a people problem, not a pet problem,” she said.