I moved into my home in Mckeesport, Pa in 2017. Never had any issues until April 2020.  I have service animals which include pitbulls.  On April 8, 2020 I received a certified letter from the city of Mckeesport telling me there is a 2 pet per household limit and I am being told by the city of Mckeesport to rehome 4 of my dogs, since I have 6 in total.  All of my dogs are up to date on vaccines, have valid vet records which are in my name, well cared for, up to date on heartworm and flea and tick prevention medicine, and licensed.  My females are spayed.  They are generally in the house with me, unless they outside playing or going to the bathroom.  When they ARE outside, they are contained to my backyard by a 6 foot chain link AND wooden fence.

The citation/ warning was issued by the city of Mckeesport in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, in response to what I was told, "numerous" residential complaints about the 6 dogs.  This same neighbor has asked others to file complaints against me and was told "no."  The neighbor claims they are afraid the dogs will get out, but this same neighbor is always by my fence, so not sure how "scared" they really are.  It is unconstitutional to have a breed prejudice.  These dogs are well-trained and never posed a threat to anyone.

I am also told there are mckeesport city officials with more than 2 pets in their homes, and there are plenty of households in Mckeesport with more than 2 pets.  The last ordinance I see on the city of mckeesport's own website says NOTHING about a 2 pet limit. 

Mckeesport ordinance (directly from the ordinance code) says, "Domestic Pets-Animals normally found in a dwelling and kept for company or pleasure, including but not limited to dogs, cats, hamsters, canaries, but not a significant number to constitute a kennel."  

"Kennel-A facility where (4) or more dogs or cats or any combination of dogs or cats totaling (4) animals which are (6) months or older are kept, bred, trained or boarded at any one time, whether for profit or not." (Page 16)

NOTHING about service animals!

When I explained to the zoning/ordinance officer that they were service animals he told me to send something to them in writing.  A few minutes later, Mckeesport's city attorney called me and said only 2 animals are permitted per household whether they are service dogs or not.  My rights are being violated and they are forcing me to rehome my dogs who assist me with different tasks on a day to day basis.  I am told it not rehomed I will face hefty fines and the dogs will be seized and thrown into a shelter.

2 pets per household is unreasonable, even the city of Pittsburgh allows 5 pets.  There are numerous homes in Mckeesport, PA who have more than 2 animals.  Per the American Disability Act, service animals are considered medical equipment (same as a wheelchair) and are NOT to be counted towards a pet limit.  

I am asking simply for your signature, to show that you support a NEW OR REVISED PET LIMIT ORDINANCE be implemented in this community.  I would like to see a revision that allows people like myself to continue to PROPERLY care for the animals that are in my home.  You do not have to like dogs, as this is for ALL pets - regardless of dogs, cats, hamsters etc.  I am asking for your support for those who own service animals and those who greatly care for their animals.  Thank you for your support!