In 2003-2004, Town Lake Animal Center was forced to kill 12,201 animals because they had no home.  That is just over 54% of the animals that were either impounded or received due to owner surrender.  The shelters are powerless to change this without the support of the community and the backing of city ordinance.  Click for more on the numbers from 2004.

The City of Austin Animal Advisory Commission decided in a May 17, 2005 public meeting to send a proposed ordinance to City Council that would make Austin a mandatory spay/neuter city. 

The ordinance would make it unlawful for anyone to own an intact dog or cat over the age of 6 months except in cases where:
  a.) Medical reasons make it unsafe to sterilize the animal
  b.) The animal and owner is transitory and in the city less than 30 days in a 12 month period
  c.) The owner obtains an intact permit allowing them to keep an intact dog or cat

To us it is simple - reduce the number of unwanted pets and we will reduce the number of dogs and cats that die every year.  It will take time.  Legislation is the only way we can make a difference.  Stay informed, voice your opinion, and help make Austin a spay/neuter city.  Austin should be the example for the rest of the state.  Keep Austin Neutered.