On Tuesday, May 13, 2025, the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners took a groundbreaking step by adopting Georgia’s first-ever Litter Registry Ordinance, a transformative measure aimed at curbing illegal breeding, reducing pet overpopulation, and strengthening the community’s connection with DeKalb County Animal Services.  

Spearheaded by District 2 Commissioner Michelle Long Spears, the ordinance requires anyone breeding a litter in DeKalb County — excluding those licensed by the Georgia Department of Agriculture — to notify Animal Services. This policy closes enforcement gaps that have allowed unregulated breeding to strain local resources, contribute to tax evasion, and fuel pet overpopulation.  

Currently, unregulated breeding costs DeKalb County taxpayers over $11 million annually in animal impoundment, care, transport, and euthanasia, with private rescues and donors spending millions more to address the crisis. By curbing illegal breeding, the ordinance will ease the burden on shelters and free resources for pet retention programs, veterinary care, and affordable spay/neuter services.  

”With the adoption of the Litter Registry Ordinance, DeKalb County is leading Georgia in tackling the root causes of pet overpopulation,” said Commissioner Long Spears. “This innovative policy not only provides essential tools to combat illegal breeding and reduce shelter overcrowding, but also protects responsible pet owners while safeguarding the health and safety of both animals and residents. I’m proud that DeKalb is setting a precedent for smart, compassionate, community-driven animal welfare legislation.”

Commissioner Long Spears also expressed appreciation for the individuals and organizations whose expertise shaped the ordinance.

“The adoption of the Litter Registry Ordinance is a testament to the collective commitment of DeKalb County residents, local organizations, and animal welfare advocates to create a more compassionate and sustainable future,” Commissioner Long Spears said. “I’m incredibly grateful to Professor Lisa Milot, Stanton Distinguished Professor in Canine Welfare Law at the University of Georgia; Peggy McCarthey, Board Member of the Georgia Pet Coalition; and the dedicated public servants of DeKalb County’s Law Department. Their expertise and passion have been instrumental in crafting this ordinance, ensuring DeKalb County leads the way in responsible and humane animal welfare governance.”

Designed for practical enforcement, the ordinance ensures accidental litters are not penalized. Instead, pet owners who register unplanned litters will gain access to essential support services, including animal care resources and affordable spay/neuter programs to prevent future unplanned births.  

Animal law expert and founder of the Animal Protection Society, Claudine Wilkins, applauded the County’s proactive approach.  

“I commend DeKalb County for undertaking steps to become the model county for animal welfare in the State of Georgia,” said Wilkins. “Understanding the vital connection between unregulated backyard breeding and its impact on pet overpopulation will ensure steps are being taken to reduce the number of animals entering the shelter in DeKalb.”