The law is aimed at eliminating the thousands of euthanizations conducted in Los Angeles’ animal shelters every year. “We will, sooner rather than later, become a no-kill city and this is the greatest step in that direction,” said Councilman Tony Cardenas said as he held a kitten at a City Hall news conference.

The ordinance does exempt animals that have competed in shows or sporting competitions, guide dogs, animals used by police agencies and those belonging to professional breeders.

The average pet owner, however, must have their dog or cat spayed or neutered by the time it reaches 4 months of age without a note from the vet.

Those who don’t comply with the ordinance will serve time. Community time that is. First-time offenders will receive information on subsidized sterilization services and be given an additional 60 days to bring a neuter note from the pet doc. Still fail to comply and they could fine you $100 and order you to serve eight hours of community service. Another offense could mean a $500 fine or 40 hours of community service.

Los Angeles animal shelters took in over 50,000 cats and dogs last year and euthanized approximately 15,000 at a cost of $2 million, according to city officials.