Joplin Health Department Officials Remind Residents of Updated Animal Housing Ordinance

As weather conditions change and temperatures drop, Joplin Health Department officials remind residents of new additions to ordinances regarding animal neglect and proper pet sheltering.

Council Bill 2025-453 amends Chapter 18, Section 18-5 Animal Abuse and Neglect as it pertains to outdoor housing of animals. The updates will bring the Joplin City Ordinance to better align with the standards set by the State of Missouri, Department of Agriculture.

Pet owners are required to provide proper care for their dogs and cats. Below are some of the minimum care requirements for pet dogs and cats:

1. Suitable shelter should be provided for animals kept outside. An example would be a doghouse for a dog kept outdoors, which adheres to these shelter standards:
   • Safe, clean, and weatherproof and fit the animal(s)’ size, age, and needs.
   • Includes a floor, walls, a roof, and an entrance with protection from wind and rain.
   • Drains well, so water doesn’t pool in the shelter.
   • Dry, well-ventilated, free of hazards, and provide shade in the summer and protection from rain, wind, and cold.
   • Large enough for the animal(s) to stand, sit, lie down comfortably, and turn around freely.
   • If the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C), animals must be provided with clean, dry bedding. When the temperature is 35°F (1.7°C) or lower, extra bedding deep enough for the animal to nest in is required.
   • Unacceptable shelter includes but is not limited to barrels, crates, cardboard boxes, and tarpaulins.
2. Adequate shade area(s) large enough for all animals to be out of the sun’s direct rays throughout the course of the day
3. Adequate care and proper shelter must be provided for animals that are sick, injured, elderly, or under six months old.
4. Food suitable for the animal and access to fresh, clean, unfrozen water is also required.
5. Normal and prudent care of pets, including exercise and veterinary care is needed.
6. Maintain rabies vaccination, administered by a licensed veterinarian, for dogs and cats.

The Animal Control Division of the Joplin Health Department works to keep our community safe and ensure quality care for pets throughout the city. The division enforces Joplin’s animal control ordinances and helps educate the public about responsible pet care and animal protection. Please contact them with questions at 417.623.6122, ext. 1280.

For a complete listing of animal control code requirements, please review the City of Joplin’s Animal Control Code.

About the Joplin Health Department: 

The Joplin Health Department provides a variety of services to the community, including animal control, community health, environmental health, medical services, vital records, emergency preparedness and response planning, and WIC.

Reference:

Joplin Health Department
417.623.6122, ext. 1256