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Health and Public Safety Committee March 18, 1996 Page 2 addressing exotic animals,that he believes that some of the exotic animals listed in § 5-23 should be reconsidered. Council Member Luecke noted that he would like further restrictions so that none of these animals could be kept as pets. The Committee then discussed§ 5-33 (h)addressing the proposed"free ride home" program and microchipping. Dr. Ecker stated that Indianapolis, Chicago, and Detroit do not have a free-ride home program. She stated that there are problems of switching collars on the animals. She also stressed the need be consistency in policies including microchipping. She foresees administrative as well as practical problems in the two (2) programs being proposed by the City Administration. In response to a question raised by Council Member Luecke,it was noted that most dogs picked up are not licensed. He also acknowledged the potential problems of changing collars where multiple dogs are owned by one family. Both Dr. Krider and Dr. Ecker voiced concern over the free ride home program. Dr. Ecker stated that in her 25-30 years of experience,that she does not believe the City has an adequate data base of using January and February 1996 on which to base the free ride home program. Ms.Dempsey noted that seven (7)dogs were picked up in both January and February 1996. Council Member Council questioned the procedure once an animal is returned. Ms. Dempsey noted that the owner would be questioned upon point of return as to whether there are other animals in the house and how they are being maintained. Ms. Dempsey stated that if there was any doubt that the animal would be kept. Concerns were raised over the time involved to do a thorough inquiry especially with regard to questioning about other animals with regard to licensing, shots,colorings, etc. The Council Attorney suggested that if an animal is returned that a"waiver of liability" form be signed by the person receiving the animal verifying ownership, etc., and that it releases the City of South Bend and its agents from all liability. Dr.Ecker suggested that a specific inquiry should also be made as to whether the animal has bitten any one. Mary Wadsworth voiced concern with regard to the requirements for pens and fencing for dangerous animals declared by the City. She also voiced concern with regard to the lack of regulations with regard to housing requirements for snakes and the like. Dr. Ecker noted that there is ongoing concern of iguanas. The Council Attorney suggested that the word "permit" should be qualified throughout the proposed Bill since there are several different types of permits. She also suggested that "permit" be defined in § 5-1 with the specific types listed within the definition. Council Member Luecke noted that the microchipping issue has not been resolved. He stated that he would prefer that it be done right away at time of adoption, rather than waiting for six (6)months. Ms.Dempsey asked for"flexibility"with regard to the microchipping policy. Council Member Washington suggested that another committee meeting be held on March 26th to continue discussion of Substitute Bill No.2-96.