Durango, Colorado

Sec. 4-63. – Spay or neuter.

(a) It shall be unlawful to own, possess or keep in the city any dog or cat over the age of six (6) months that has not been spayed or neutered, except as provided in subsection (b) of this section.

(b) Exceptions: The following are exceptions to the spay or neuter requirements in subsection (a) of this section:

(1) Medical. A licensed veterinarian has determined that an animal is medically unsuited to undergo the surgical procedure. A signed statement from a licensed veterinarian is required and shall state specifically the medical grounds for the exemption.

(2) Temporary medical. When the animal’s medical condition is temporary in nature, the licensed veterinarian shall sign a written statement as to the prognosis of when the surgery may be performed. The date given on that prognosis shall become the expiration date of the temporary medical exemption. After the period of the temporary medical exemption, spay or neuter shall be required unless a licensed veterinarian provides another temporary medical exemption and prognosis of when the surgery may be performed.

(3) Intact permit. An owner obtains an annual intact animal permit from the designated licensing agency and is in compliance with the city’s annual licensing requirements contained in this chapter. The fee for an intact permit shall be established by the designated licensing agency, after consultation with the city council.

(c) Non-neutered or non-spayed animals shall be required by the municipal court to undergo sterilization upon conviction of three (3) at-large offenses in violation of section 4-41 of this chapter.