If you thought folks got riled up about the recent “nuisance” ordinance which made a mighty try at defining “junk,” just wait ‘til you hear the folks who will grouse about the new animal control ordinance.

People and pets is a subject that is so sensitive that it has already taken the Kitsap County Commissioners more than a year and a half to put the ordinance together.

Why does the County get involved with you and your pet?

Animal lovers and their neighbors have distinctly different viewpoints on the subjects of noise, roaming pets who leave fertilizer (and puppies or kittens) behind, or animals that are vicious and uncontrolled.

The new ordinances requires pets to be licensed, but is less stringent than a “leash law.” It also differentiates between pet owners and businesses that breed and sell pets. The new ordinance also includes fines starting at $144 and up to $364 for people who don’t control their pets.

Why is it necessary to regulate animals and animal owners?

Ask the retiree who was awakened as many as 25 times in a month by his neighbor’s barking dogs.

Ask the Kitsap County Humane Society how many unwanted puppies and kittens are brought to them annually, thanks to roaming unneutered pets?

Ask your neighbors who have seen their gardens or lawns destroyed by animals who use them as restrooms.

It is cruel and dangerous to your pets and unfair to your neighbors to allow animals to roam freely.

Responsible pet owners won’t notice a difference, but for the less responsible––let the howling begin.