Las Vegas Stiffens Penalties for Animal Abandonment: Will Tougher Laws Deter Neglect?

The Las Vegas City Council is stepping up to protect its voiceless residents—animals—with new measures aimed at curbing abandonment and hoarding. Unanimously passed on Wednesday, these reforms increase penalties for those who abandon pets and set limits on how many animals can be sold per year at pet stores.

The move follows the heartbreaking story of Reba, an English Bulldog found sealed in a plastic tub in scorching 110-degree heat last summer. Despite receiving care, Reba succumbed to her injuries, sparking widespread outrage and calls for action on animal cruelty.

Under the new rules, fines for abandoning pets now reach up to $1,000, a sharp increase from the previous $200 maximum. Offenders also face a mandatory two-day jail sentence, up to six months of incarceration, and as many as 120 hours of community service. Yet, some city officials remain skeptical about whether these penalties are enough to deter such heartless behavior.

“How does a $1,000 fine deter someone from abandoning their pets?” asked Mayor Shelley Berkley. City safety administrator Rudy Tovar admitted the limits of the city’s power, explaining that harsher penalties would require state-level changes.

Animal abandonment cases are notoriously difficult to prosecute, but Councilwoman Victoria Seaman emphasized the importance of doing what is possible. “Yes, I wish we could do more. But at least we’re doing what we can in our capacity here at City Hall,” she said.

In addition to addressing abandonment, the council also targeted illegal breeding and hoarding by capping the number of animals that can be purchased from pet stores annually. Buyers are now limited to six dogs, six cats, four ferrets, four rabbits, and two guinea pigs per year. Pet shops must also submit quarterly reports to ensure compliance.

While the focus remains on regulating pet shops, Seaman pointed out the root of the issue: illegal animal breeding. “I am grateful that we have pet stores because we get to regulate them,” she noted. “The problem here, as we all know, is illegal breeding. But at least we now have an opportunity for our animal protective services to monitor and flag potential hoarding situations.”

This legislation reflects a broader effort to hold individuals accountable for their treatment of animals while addressing systemic issues like illegal breeding. But the question remains—will tougher penalties and regulations be enough to deter neglect and cruelty?

Source: 8 News Now