DALLAS — A Dallas City Council committee is looking at some controversial changes to animal control laws.

Animals are responsible for many complaints at City Hall, from stray pets to biting and barking dogs.

The vast majority of dogs and cats arrive unsterilized at the city's animal shelter. Eight out of 10 of them end up euthanized.

The council is ready to study toughening animal control laws and the quality of life committee is looking at the issue right now.

The Animal Shelter Commission recommends a mandatory spay-neuter requirement, except for:

• Pets younger than six months
• Pets in bad health
• Show animals

Breeders would be exempt from the spay and neuter requirement after getting a $500 permit.

The commission recommends a law to limit dogs and cats to six per household, except for foster and rescue programs. Owners with more than six pets when the law becomes effective would be exempt.

Some breeders oppose the proposed changes.

The committee won't vote on anything Monday, but the tilt of the debate should give us some idea how far the council is willing to go to put animal control problems on a short leash.

E-mail bwatson@wfaa.com