MS: Bay St. Lousi to Outlaw "dangerous pets"

This is from our Sun Herald newspaper today 01/20/05:

Bay to outlaw dangerous pets

Don't even think of owning a hippo

By RYAN LaFONTAINE

THE SUN HERALD

BAY ST. LOUIS - Residents hope a new ordinance prohibiting owning dangerous animals has plenty of teeth.

This week, city leaders fashioned an ordinance that would regulate owning and transporting certain animals.

The proposed ordinance lists more than 100 different species that would be illegal to own in the city limits, such as hippopotamuses, giraffes, gorillas and reptiles that could potentially grow longer than eight feet.

According to the City Council's 15-page proposal, pet lovers who yearn for more than the traditional dog or cat will have to file for a "personal possession permit" to own an animal listed in the ordinance.

Personal possession applicants must be at least 18 , and have not been convicted of a felony or drug charges.

The ordinance also would make it illegal for owners to take exotic animals to public events, such as parades and festivals.

Unnerved by the escape and four-day disappearance of a neighbor's 17-foot Burmese python, Union Street residents began circulating petitions asking the city for help in October.

Nearly 200 names appeared on petitions and Mayor Eddie Favre said the ordinance would protect residents and the animals.

"None of us considered a need for an ordinance until that incident," Favre said.

Residents will have an opportunity to suggest changes in the ordinance at a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 15 at City Hall.

http://www.sunherald.com/mld/sunhera...l/10686260.htm