SA govt backs mandatory pet desexing

The South Australian government plans to make the desexing of dogs and cats mandatory after a recommendation by a citizens' jury to cut euthanasia rates.

Environment Minister Ian Hunter on Wednesday backed a citizen jury's recommendations for mandatory desexing and microchipping, saying about 10,000 dogs and cats were euthanised each year in South Australia.

SA's Dog and Cat Management Board said mandatory desexing would also help reduce dog aggression and bites.

The planned desexing laws will only apply to new pet purchases, with exemptions for breeders and livestock dogs.

Mr Hunter will also investigate a citizen jury proposal to crack down on puppy farms with a ban on the sale of pets and dogs in pet shops.

He will also look into legislation to encourage more acceptance of tenants with pets.

But the government does not support a recommendation for a trap, neuter and release trial for unwanted cats.