Laredo Homeowners Urged to Follow Trapping Rules
The city prohibits inhumane traps and specific poisons; ensure your pest control methods comply with local ordinances.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Wildlife
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Best Friends for Life recently issued a warning to Laredo homeowners regarding the use of illegal animal trapping and poisoning methods. Residents must adhere to city ordinances that prohibit inhumane practices, including the use of steel-jaw leg-hold traps and snares.
Why it matters
Understanding these local animal welfare regulations helps homeowners avoid unintentional violations of city law while managing wildlife on their property. Poisoning or trapping animals in violation of Laredo Code of Ordinances can lead to legal consequences for residents.
Laredo Code of Ordinances § 16-9 prohibits exposing poisonous substances to warm-blooded animals, though pesticides and rat poisons on private property remain exempt. Approved methods for animal control are strictly regulated, requiring that any authorized live-catch traps be checked at least every eight hours.
The players
Best Friends for Life
A nonprofit organization focused on animal welfare and the advocacy of humane trapping and care practices.
Laredo Animal Care Services
The local agency responsible for enforcing animal welfare ordinances and managing stray animal populations.
Laredo Police Department
The municipal law enforcement agency that oversees the reporting and investigation of animal cruelty complaints.
Laredo Crime Stoppers
A community program providing an anonymous channel for reporting potential violations, including animal cruelty.
The details
Inhumane trapping methods, specifically steel-jaw traps and devices with teeth, are banned to prevent unnecessary animal suffering. When using legal live-catch box cages, residents must provide shelter, food, and water to prevent exposure to extreme weather. Poisoning is also prohibited under Chapter 6 of the local code, regardless of whether the substance is ingested, making it critical for homeowners to use only approved, targeted pest-control methods.
Timeline
October 20, 2026: Best Friends for Life released animal welfare guidelines and warnings.
The Home Front
This warning reinforces the requirements of Laredo Code of Ordinances Chapter 6 regarding the humane management of wildlife. It serves as a reminder that local regulations strictly define acceptable pest control methods to protect pets and local animals from indiscriminate harm.
If you are managing pests, ensure your traps are live-catch only and check them every eight hours to remain compliant with city code. If you suspect an animal welfare violation, contact Laredo Animal Care Services at 956-625-1855 or the police department at 956-725-3333.
The takeaway
Laredo homeowners should review their pest control methods to ensure compliance with city ordinance mandates on humane trapping and poisoning. Report suspected cruelty to Laredo Crime Stoppers at 956-727-8477.
Further reading
For more on managing wildlife in your backyard, visit the Laredo Wildlife section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Laredo Morning Times.
Live Poll
Should your community increase enforcement against inhumane animal treatment and illegal trapping?
