I live in a semi-rural area with a strong "yankee" tradition of personal responsibiliity and individual rights. Many people here own horses, goats, sheep, chickens and even bison in addition to their household pets! We have a town meeting based form of local govt. and weekly, our selectman's meetings are televised and well attended. People here really do speak their minds and their opinions are well heeded. When a proposition such as this comes up, it is voted on at town meeting (held twice yearly, with "special" meetings held as needed) and each and every citizen of the town in entitled to vote to approve/disapprove such proposals. The proposition is openly discussed and anyone is free to stand up and speak their opinion. The meetings sometimes go on until the wee hours of the morning in order to allow everyone who wants to be heard, to be heard! The only companion animal restrictions we have here is that the number of dogs per houshold is limited to 3. More than that and a kennel license is requred. All cats and dogs must be licensed and show proof of rabies vaccination. There is no limit on the number of cats or other pets. Luckily, we also have a very diligent, caring and proactive animal control officer who assures the safety and well being of all our companion animals. Cruelty, abuse and neglect are reported and in cases where the animals' safety is question, (such as too many to be cared for properly) action is taken, beginning with counseling and education. I will try and get further documentation on our companion animal laws/restrictions and share them with you! It sounds as though a few "rotten apples" are spoiling it for everyone, Kater!