HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 90

(By Delegates D. Poling, D. Walker, Manchin, Evans,

Hall, Rowan, Schadler, Klempa, Michael, Azinger,

Guthrie, Ellem, Longstreth, C. Miller and Cowles)

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance authorize the study of West Virginia's dogs and animal control issues which would examine the problem of unwanted cats and dogs and derive a plan to combat the issue in a cost efficient manor while still considering the humane treatment of animals.

Whereas, There is a disturbing amount of unwanted dogs and cats across the State of West Virginia; and
Whereas, In 2008, 16,823 dogs and 17,725 cats were taken into shelters throughout West Virginia; and
Whereas, Every nine seconds a dog or cat is killed in a shelter because there is no one to adopt them; and
Whereas, Forty-nine percent of dogs and seventy-seven percent of cats entering West Virginia shelters in 2008 were euthanized; and
Whereas, Many dogs and cats in shelters are special needs animals who have suffered from neglect and abuse; and
Whereas, Pet overpopulation is at crisis levels; and
Whereas, The safety of both male and female animals is dramatically increased if they are spayed or neutered; therefore, be it
Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:
That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is hereby requested to study West Virginia's dogs and animal control issues, examine the problem of unwanted cats and dogs, and derive a plan to combat the issue in a cost efficient manor while still considering the humane treatment of animals; and, be it
Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2011, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and be it
Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.