Guidelines involving pet admissions

[Julia Cochran]

Chrissy,

We have a feral cat problem and would like to incorporate wording into our guidelines requiring all pets be spayed or neutered before being brought into the community. Any suggestions? If you have any other ideas on solving the feral cat issue, I'm all ears as I'm running into roadblocks working with our city government and surrounding mobile home communities.

Thanks so much,

Julia A. Cochran
Regional Manager
Jennings Realty, Inc.

[Chrissy Jackson]

Sure would be easier of there were some type of city ordinance, but absent that, I would limit the number of animals in a home, and yes, require that they are either spayed or neutered with proof available to the manager. The problem, of course, is that if you make it a rule, that ostensibly means that you will evict for violation of the rule. This is probably one of those rules that would be harder than most when it comes to eviction. Cat traps are another option. Some states allow a community to fine a resident for breaking rules. If your state allows this, and you have a rule that says animals cannot run loose, but must always be on a hand-held leash or tied, then catching them in a trap would mean that they were loose, and fining a resident is much preferred (in most cases) than evicting them.

[Julia Cochran]

Chrissy,

So it is legal to require that pets be spayed or neutered - good to know. Can you suggest verbage that could be added to our guidelines? I've looked through some of your published materials and don't find anything regarding that. Thanks so much for your prompt response!

Julia Cochran
Regional Manager
Jennings Realty, Inc.