Fresno protesters want fines for backyard dog breeders

FRESNO, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – Animal activists from across the Central Valley are set to hold a protest in Fresno this weekend calling for Fresno County and the City of Fresno to fine backyard dog breeders to help reduce the strain on local animal shelters.

Mona Ahmed, an animal activist and founder of the nonprofit organization Fresno Furry Friends , says the protest is being held to encourage the City of Fresno and Fresno County to take action.

Ahmed says there is a law against backyard breeders, but feels the city and county are not enforcing it.

According to Ahmed, backyard breeders are a major part of the overpopulation problem in Fresno. She says at least 50% of animal intakes are from backyard breeders and it’s only getting worse.

“These shelters are getting full from backyard breeders,” Ahmed said.

In a statement to YourCentralValley.com, the City of Fresno says they are currently in the process of properly authorizing staff to issue citations and enforce the ordinances and appreciates the attention that the animal population crisis is receiving.

We discourage breeding that results in higher intakes to local shelters. The City began operation of the animal center on December 1, 2023. City officials are currently in the process of properly authorizing staff to issue citations and enforce our ordinances and will continue to work on providing resources that help the community with responsible pet ownership. The community can help by adopting from the Fresno Animal Center or other local shelter.

City of Fresno

In a statement to YourCentralValley.com, Fresno County says Fresno Humane Animal Services (FHAS) has not received complaints with specific addresses on unlicensed breeding.

Specific information, including addresses, is crucial for FHAS to effectively respond to complaints. Our jurisdiction covers unincorporated Fresno County, and providing detailed information facilitates our ability to investigate and address issues promptly.

Fresno County Department of Public Health

Fresno County officials add that any animal complaints can be submitted online here .

The protest is set to take place Saturday, May 18, from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. at Blackstone Avenue and Shaw Avenue in Fresno.

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