Walker County pet owners are now required to have their dogs and cats spayed or neutered under a newly approved county ordinance.

The Walker County Board of Commissioners recently amended the county’s Animal Code to include spay and neuter requirements for dogs and cats six months of age or older.

County Animal Services Director Bailey Clements said the move is aimed at reducing pet overpopulation. According to Clements, the county shelter took in more than 2,000 dogs and cats last year, and fewer than 9% had been spayed or neutered.

The ordinance includes exemptions for licensed commercial breeders or pet dealers, animals that cannot be altered for medical reasons with documentation from a veterinarian, and working animals used for farming, herding, hunting, service, law enforcement, or show purposes.

Residents who choose not to spay or neuter their pets must obtain an annual Unaltered Animal License. The license will be issued as a metal tag that must be attached to the animal’s collar and worn at all times.

The fee is $50 for cats and $100 for dogs. County officials say proceeds will support Walker County’s spay and neuter voucher program, which currently has nearly 500 residents on a waitlist.

The ordinance and licensing program will be reviewed by the Board of Commissioners at its November 5, 2026 meeting.