Should the city limit pets?

Council discussion prompted by renter who turned 77 dogs over to animal shelter when he could no longer care for them.

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By Dave Greber, Staff Writer Updated 7:05 AM Friday, July 2, 2010

HAMILTON — How many dogs is too many to own, and should the city be able to decide that number?

When word broke last month about the 77 dogs living under the care of Gary Roberson in the Ross Avenue home he rented, local officials felt they had to act. That there was no ordinance on the books already that prevented such a situation astounded them.

“I understand his intent was good-hearted, but where do we draw the line where we say how many is too many?” said Councilman Tim Naab, who intends to broach the issue at a July 14 meeting.

Friends and relatives of Roberson said the number of dogs in his care, which were all licensed, was never an issue — until he was finally so outnumbered and overworked that he had to hand over the massive responsibility to the Animal Friends Humane Society.

The issue in the coming weeks will raise questions of logistics — numbers, regulation and implementation —as well as philosophy; is it the job of local government to impose rules that could be considered invasive?

Naab said he’s confident he’ll have the support to proceed with at least a study of other jurisdictions’ laws regarding pets and nuisances.

“I think we’ll do something soon,” he said. “We’re not going to postpone this for a year. We’re going to have to do something sooner rather than later.”

Other Council members agree, but hope that the imminent discussion takes into consideration a broad perspective.

“I guess I don’t like government to control my life,” said Councilwoman Kathleen Klink. “I would hope, though, that I’m smart enough to know when I’ve reached my own limits.”

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