A pet sterilization ordinance was signed in Los Angles that requires most dogs and cats to be spayed or neutered by the time they are 4 months old, according to media reports Wednesday.

The ordinance, signed by Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, will take effect Oct. 1 and aims to settle the euthanization problem in Los Angeles' animal shelters every year.

Los Angeles official information showed that the city's animal shelters took in 50,000 cats and dogs last year and euthanized approximately 15,000 at a cost of 2 million dollars.

"We will, sooner rather than later, become a no-kill city and this is the greatest step in that direction," Councilman Tony Cardenas said as he held a kitten at a City Hall news conference.

The ordinance requires the owners to spay or neuter their dogs or cats by the time they are 4 months of old (as late as 6 months with a letter from a veterinarian).

Animals to compete in shows or sporting competitions, guide dogs, animals used by police agencies and those belonging to professional breeders are exempted.

First-time offenders will receive information on subsidized sterilization services and be given an additional 60 days. If they still fail to comply they could be fined 100 U.S. dollars and ordered to serve eight hours of community service. A subsequent offense could result in a 500 dollars fine or 40 hours of community service.

(Xinhua News Agency February 27, 2008)