Campbell City Council Takes a Stand Against Illegal Dog Breeding
The city of Campbell, Ohio, is making it clear: illegal and unethical animal breeding will no longer be tolerated.
In a powerful move during Wednesday’s regular council meeting, Council President George Levendis delivered a message to those engaging in improper breeding practices: “It’s going to stop.”
To back up those words, Campbell City Council gave a first reading to a new ordinance that would crack down on unregulated breeding, selling, and transferring of unaltered animals within city limits. This legislation doesn’t just focus on dogs—it also includes cats, ferrets, rabbits, reptiles, birds, chickens, and even wildlife.
Addressing a Bigger Problem
The goal of the ordinance is multifaceted:
End backyard and hobby breeding that often occurs without regard for animal welfare
Reduce pet overpopulation and shelter euthanasia rates
Promote responsible pet ownership
Ensure animals are obtained through licensed and humane sources
Prevent cruelty, neglect, and exploitation of animals
These changes come at a critical time, as communities across Ohio continue to deal with the effects of unregulated breeding and overwhelmed shelter systems. According to the ordinance, “Uncontrolled and unscrupulous breeding practices contribute to overpopulation, higher euthanasia rates and a greater strain on municipal resources.”
What’s in the Ordinance?
If passed, the new ordinance would:
Ban the breeding, sale, or transfer of unaltered animals without proper authorization
Prohibit public advertising of animals for sale or transfer (including online listings)
Mandate spaying or neutering in certain cases
Prohibit separating puppies from their mothers before 9 weeks and kittens before 12 weeks
Penalize violations with fines up to $1,000, possible jail time, and mandatory sterilization
Negligent or reckless breeders could face penalties starting at $750 for a first offense, escalating to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail for repeated violations.
This ordinance follows a series of animal welfare reforms in Campbell, including improved standards for tethering and enclosures. It's also a direct response to a disturbing case last year, when authorities discovered 22 neglected dogs living in filthy, cramped conditions inside a Campbell residence. That case exposed the urgent need for stricter regulations and enforcement to protect vulnerable animals from abuse and exploitation.
A Step in the Right Direction
At Ohio Animal Advocates, we applaud the City of Campbell for taking a proactive stand. Legislation like this is a crucial step toward building a more humane Ohio—one where animals are not bred irresponsibly for profit, but instead valued and protected.
We encourage other Ohio municipalities to follow Campbell’s lead. By addressing irresponsible breeding at the local level, we can reduce cruelty, save lives, and create safer communities for both animals and people.
Want to Help?
Support our work by staying informed, speaking up for local animal ordinances, and advocating for responsible pet ownership. Together, we can create meaningful change for Ohio’s animals. Visit https://www.ohioanimaladvocates.org/get-involved
Source: The Vindicator
