Rescue groups for controlling feral dog and cat populations could see a significant breakthrough in South Dakota. Senate Bill 172 is progressing through the state legislature, which aims to grant legal protection for trap, neuter, and release (TNR) programs. The South Dakota Bill has already cleared the Senate and now awaits its final step before reaching Governor Kristi Noem’s desk.
Bill protecting feral dog rescue work advances in South Dakota
Senate Bill 172 seeks to authorize trap, neuter, and release (TNR) programs, as Siouxland Proud reports. It secured a 9-3 vote in the House Local Government Committee on Tuesday, Feb. 13. After successfully passing the Senate, the bill awaits deliberation on the House floor.
According to Republican Rep. Becky Drury, the bill is designed to assist organizations dedicated to capturing animals, spaying them, and subsequently releasing them. However, releasing feral cats or dogs currently contravenes state law, which prohibits any individual responsible for an animal’s care from neglecting, abandoning, or mistreating it.
Republican Rep. Marty Overweg opposed the bill. He expressed concerns about the potential ramifications. In addition, he believes returning animals to the streets, even after being spayed or neutered, could still lead to problems.
He further stated, “I just don’t see this as a right way to move…I think we need to take care of them, the most humane way that we can.”
Overweg acknowledged the issue of feral dogs and cats. Additionally, he sought clarification on the comparative costs between spaying and neutering versus wrecking their lives.
The founder of Sioux Empire TNR Coalition, Mat Tougas, specified the primary objective of TNR, which is to reduce and control the population.
Peggy Gibson, a former state lawmaker and resident of Huron, South Dakota, mentioned that veterinarians in Huron endorse TNR initiatives. According to her, they are providing discounted rates of $57 to nonprofits for spaying or neutering procedures.
