Question
My dog jumped over the fence, and animal control picked him up. They told me that I must consent to having my dog neutered before they would return him. They also said that if I did not agree, they would put him up for adoption within 72 hours. What are my rights in this situation?
Answer
Several municipalities in Maryland (and elsewhere) have enacted laws which allow or require shelters to spay or neuter impounded animals prior to releasing the animals to the animals’ “parents.” Spaying and neutering help to control the overpopulation of animals and can provide health benefits. Consider how many dogs your dog could have impregnated while out unsupervised in public.
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