New Jersey begins pilot program for mandatory sterilization

TRENTON, N.J. —A bill enacted in New Jersey Dec. 5 establishes a new sterilization pilot program for adopted dogs and cats.

The bill will allow New Jersey officials to evaluate the potential for a mandatory sterilization program for all adopted animals, says New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. The pilot program will require sterilization of cats and dogs adopted from shelters, pounds or kennels for two years in certain counties. The bill also requires a shelter to keep a voluntarily surrendered animal for at least seven days before euthanizing, and permits transferring surrendered animals to a rescue facility or foster home.