Animal overload forces code revisions

Tacoma's FIRST 311 service reported 1,467 animal-related complaints in 2024-2025, with complaints doubling each year since 2023. The escalating animal population has overwhelmed shelters and raised public health concerns. Council member John Hines is spearheading amendments to local animal care codes, including spay/neuter mandates and community cat programs. The Humane Society has been waiving pet adoption fees due to an influx of animals, stressing the urgency of the proposed changes. Hines noted that the shelter, as an open-admission facility, cannot refuse animals regardless of their conditions.

The amendments aim to curtail overpopulation and enhance community safety. The council will further discuss these amendments in upcoming sessions, seeking to pass new regulations. Increased animal licensing fees will help fund low-cost spay/neuter programs.