Pet limit plan questions
McHenry County is considering whether to limit the number of pets someone can own in unincorporated areas of the county.
The idea was floated at a McHenry County Animal Control Advisory Committee this week. The meeting drew nearly 150 people. Most voiced opposition to the measure, decrying it as an example of unneeded, intrusive government.
Others raised concern about animal rights. Still others mentioned the economy and the fact that people were giving up pets rather than pay the costs of keeping an animal, therefore this would not be the time to limit people willing to take animals in.
It should be noted that such measures are not all that unusual. Kane, Lake, and Boone counties each have limits. Cook County does not have a limit, leaving the issues to municipalities.
In McHenry County, several municipalities limit pets. Huntley limits residents to three domestic animals. Cary and Fox River Grove limit residents to three dogs, but have no limit on cats. Some of the larger communities in McHenry County – Crystal Lake, McHenry and Woodstock – do not have limits.
Whether the county needs to pass an ordinance limiting cat and dog ownership remains to be seen. One question we have is, why is this an issue that deserves the County Board’s attention? Is this a pressing issue?
We heard plenty this week from opponents. Critics turned out in droves to oppose the ordinance. Yet, little has been heard from those who deem such a measure as necessary.
Previously, County Board member Sue Draffkorn, R-Wonder Lake, said that she wanted an ordinance considered based on the complaints of constituents. We’d like to hear from those who think this ordinance is necessary.
It’s a discussion we think is worth having.
