Petition created to repeal Fort Smith ordinance related to feeding stray animals

FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — A petition in Fort Smith fighting a city ordinance on feeding stray animals with unattended food has gained more than 700 signatures.

The petition is to repeal an ordinance that allows the city to fine anyone who is caught feeding or watering stray animals.

It was created after a resident was threatened with a ticket for setting out food, water and a fan on her porch for a stray dog.

The goal of the petition is to raise awareness and propose amendments that would protect community members who are helping homeless and unwanted pets.

In response to the petition, the city of Fort Smith released a statement:

The City of Fort Smith advises residents to practice responsible animal care by not leaving food and water unattended for stray animals. Unattended food and water can attract wildlife such as raccoons, rats, opossums, and more stray dogs and cats, potentially increasing the number of animals in need.

Our ordinance allows for feeding and watering strays, but food and water should not be left out. Given the current heat, if you choose to provide food and water, please ensure you remove them promptly. For a more lasting solution, consider fostering the stray and taking advantage of our City of Fort Smith voucher for discounted spaying or neutering. This approach helps address the animal’s needs more effectively than temporary feeding and watering during hot spells.

City of Fort Smith

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