As a devoted animal lover, I have witnessed first-hand the tragic fate of many animals that enter our municipal shelters each year. My beloved pit bull, Blake, was one day away from being euthanized when I adopted him. He has since changed my world for the better and it's time we take accountability for our part in the mishandling of dogs in the shelter. 

FACT:
The Midlands has the highest euthanasia rate in the state for Dogs.

In Lexington County and Richland/City municipal shelters, needless euthanasia is a heartbreaking reality for many dogs and cats. The majority of these animals are pit bulls - a breed that is often misunderstood and mistreated despite fitting the definition put forward by AKC as an exceptional pet.

The solution to this problem lies outside of our municipal shelters. We need to urge our Council members to vote in support of a Mandatory Microchipping and Spay/Neuter Ordinance for cats and dogs over 6 months of age. This ordinance will not only help control the pet population but also ensure that lost pets can be returned to their owners more easily.

Pawmetto Lifeline’s CEO will be talking to our city council members on February 27th at 11:00 AM about this issue. If you can be there please show up outside city hall showing your support. Either way this petition will be invaluable. Let us show them that we stand with Pawmetto Lifeline in support of this bill! It's time we take action now! Sign this petition today to voice your support for implementing mandatory microchipping and spaying/neutering ordinance in Lexington and Richland County.

Because we know things are not black and white, please see below for our proposed  exceptions:

The ordinance is complaint driven. No one expects Animal Control to go door to door.
Funding is NOT the issue. Pawmetto Lifeline will spay/neuter/microchip any high-risk (large breed mix dog or adult cat) that has been issued a citation.
 
 We recognize that there are some instances where mandatory spay/neuter would not be appropriate. These exceptions are outlined below:
Any owner or caretaker of a pet can furnish a statement by a licensed veterinarian that for medical reasons the spay or neuter procedure is not appropriate at this time.
Any owner or caretaker of one (1) or more purebred pet(s) who can furnish proof of participation in at least three nationally recognized conformation or obedience shows within the past 12 months. This is to include pets registered through the American Kennel Club (AKC) or United Kennel Club (UKC).
Any dog trained and certified to be a service dog for its owner. Proof of training and certification may be requested and reviewed by the Animal Services Director.
Any dog trained and certified to be used for hunting is exempt from this section. Proof of training and certification may be requested and reviewed by the Animal Services Director.
Animal Control does NOT seize the dog or cat.
The citation is not dismissed unless there is proof of sterilization. Meaning, Animal Control will NOT drop the citation if the pet disappears or is taken to a shelter following a citation.

As you can see from above Pawmetto Lifeline has taken great strides in listening to the public and finding solutions that will work for everyone.