Animal Ordinance Addressed by Council at Study Session

The Sheridan City Council at a study session Monday night addressed proposed amendments to an ordinance pertaining to animals within the City. Sheridan Media’s Ron Richter has the details.

At their first regularly scheduled meeting in August, the Council approved first reading of an ordinance that clarifies the enforcement issues that the City has had under the current code for animals at large, aggressive animals, and cruelty/neglect of animals. Councilor Jacob Martin introduced an amendment that was ultimately approved by the Council that declared cat declawing as animal cruelty and that the procedure could only be performed in the City if medically necessary.

At their business meeting on Monday, August 15, the Council voted to table second reading of the animal ordinance. At Monday night’s study session, the Council received an update from City Attorney Brendon Kerns on amendments to the ordinance, one in particular that removes the declawing prohibition. Councilman Martin responded to concerns about the declawing prohibition that were brought forth by Councilor Steve Brantz.

Councilwoman Kristen Jennings said she’s opposed to the declawing prohibition and the animal ordinance in general.

The Council is expected to officially consider second reading of the animal ordinance at their business meeting this upcoming Monday night.