In an effort to lessen the amount of loose animals on city streets, the San Antonio City Council voted to institute fines for residents who abandon their pets during its Sept. 11 meeting.

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According to city documents, the ordinance amends Chapter 5 of the City Code, titled “Animals,” and creates a new section—Section 5-23—which adds penalties for individuals who are convicted of intentionally abandoning any animal within city limits that is under a person’s control or possession. The ordinance expands upon existing state law to cover all animals, instead of just specific types.

New animal abandonment fines:

First offense: minimum of $500 and a maximum of $2,000

Second offense: minimum of $1,000 and maximum of $2,000

Third and subsequent offense $2,000

Prior to votin

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