Animal Rescue Coalition of NJ

What's New! - A1568 (previously A1827 and A3219)

The Coalition authored/proposed bill A1568 that requires all cats and dogs released from pounds and shelters be sterilized with certain exceptions. The Coalition is working with Assemblywoman Greenstein to see this bill become law. The bill is currently in committee. Click here for more info on bill A1568.

On Monday May 15, 2006, members of the Animal Rescue Coalition of NJ testified before the Assembly Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee about this Assembly Bill, when it was known as A1827. A recording of the full meeting can be heard here:

http://rmserver.njleg.state.nj.us/internet/2006/AAN/0515-0200PM-1.wma

Summary of A1568

Bill A1568 requires that all cats and dogs released from shelters (either thru owner redemption or adoption) be sterilized and microchipped, with certain exceptions.

Exceptions include:

a) animal is owned by a licensed breeder

b) animal is registered as a "show" animal by AKC, Cat Fanciers or any similar organization

c) a letter from a licensed veterinarian stating that sterilization would endanger the health of the animal or that the animal is too young or too old to be sterilized

d) animal is released to a 501(c)3 animal rescue group. The rescue group would be responsible for sterilizing and microchipping the animal before adoption.

The cost of sterilization and microchipping will be incorporated into increased adoption fees. Additional funding will be available via increased license fees with the increase going to a special fund dedicated for the above procedures.

Once an owner identifies his dog or cat is held at a shelter and he intends to claim said animal, the animal would be sterilized within three days, unless the owner claimed exception. The owner would cover the cost of the sterilization.

Similarly, when a person applies to adopt an unsterilized animal, after his application was approved, the animal would be sterilized within three days. In the meantime, the new owner would get the animal licensed. The animal could be taken home after sterilization and upon proof of license.

Alternatively, an owner or adopter can leave a deposit (not less than $200) when taking possession of an unaltered animal. The deposit will be refunded when proof of sterilization (or proof of exception) is presented to the shelter.

To support this legislation, please call or write your legislator. How To Find Your Legislator

Please bookmark this site and check back regularly for updates on the progress of A1568

Our Mission Statement:

Animal Rescue Coalition of NJ is a coalition of animal rescue groups and others working to reduce the number of homeless animals in New Jersey and to improve the welfare of all animals.

Animal Rescue Coalition of NJ works to foster respect, understanding and compassion for all creatures, and the belief that all life is valuable and worthy of protection.

Membership:

Our membership is comprised of non-profit, all-volunteer animal rescue groups and various community organizations and individuals committed to our cause.

Membership is open but not limited to:

Animal rescue groups

Private and municipal shelters

Animal control professionals

Veterinarians

Animal welfare organizations

Individuals

Our Goals for 2008:

	Promote the spay/neuter of all domestic animals in New Jersey through education and legislation.
	Research and develop low cost spay/neuter solutions for New Jersey residents and rescue groups.
	Increase our membership and spread the word of our cause.

Animal Rescue Coalition of NJ is a non-profit corporation in the State of New Jersey with 501c3 non-profit status from the IRS.

Animal Rescue Coalition of NJ

P.O. Box 55111

Trenton, NJ 08638

For contact information, please click here:

Animal Rescue Coalition of NJ - Contact Us