Athens, Ohio

Update: Athens City Code 9.01.09 is no longer in effect. It was repealed by Athens City Council in 2006. We offer the code’s content as an example and for informational purposes only.

• Any dog or cat over the age of six months must be spayed or neutered before being sold or given away.
• Any dog or cat under the age of six months must have proof of the purchase of spay or neuter services from a licensed veterinarian.
• Violations are subject to a minor misdemeanor fine of up to $100 with proceeds paid to the County Sick and Injured Animal Fund.

Section 9.01.09. Spaying and Neutering of Dogs and Cats

It shall be unlawful to sell or give away in the City of Athens, Ohio, any dog or cat over the age of six months that has not been spayed or neutered, except as provided in the exceptions contained herein.

It shall be unlawful to sell or give away in the City of Athens, Ohio, any dog or cat under the age of six months without proof of purchase of spay or neuter services from a licensed veterinarian, including a signed statement from the licensed veterinarian that such services will be rendered by the age of six months.

There is hereby excepted from the provisions of this Athens City Code Section the following:

(A) Any dog or cat that a licensed veterinarian has determined is medically unsuited to undergo the sterilization procedure. A signed statement from a licensed veterinarian is required, and the signed statement shall state specifically the medical grounds for the exemption. When the dog or cat’s medical condition precluding spaying or neutering is temporary, the licensed veterinarian shall sign a written statement as to the prognosis of when the surgery may be performed. The dog or cat shall be spayed or neutered immediately upon the expiration of the medical condition unless the veterinarian signs another written statement indicating the dog or cat’s medical condition precludes it.

(B) The breeder of a dog or cat may sell or place their animals intact. The breeder of a dog or cat is defined as a person who owns or leases the dog or cat when the dam or queen was bred. To qualify for this exemption, the breeder must live in the City of Athens, Ohio. Proof of spay or neuter procedures for dogs and cats covered hereunder, shall be the responsibility of the seller, or person giving the dog or cat away. Evidence of spay or neuter procedures shall be available to the Athens City Dog Warden upon request. Any person cited pursuant to this section of the Athens City Code, shall have the citation dismissed, if there is proof of compliance within fourteen days after the date of the citation. Any person found guilty of violating this section of the Athens City Code shall be subject to a minor misdemeanor fine of up to one hundred dollars ($100.00) with proceeds paid to the County Sick and Injured Animal Fund. Each day, after the finding of guilty, that the violation continues shall constitute a separate offense.