Archive for the ‘ANIMAL RIGHTS AGENDA’ Category
June 9th, 2009 | 
Author: * * PLEASE CROSS POST WIDELY * *
>
> Share this with your local TV affiliates and other news media. This is
> an opportunity for more eyes to be focused on the true agenda of the
> Humane Society of the United States. (There is a place to leave
> comments.)
>
> <http://www.wsbtv.com/news/19463509/detail.html>
>
> Where Humane Society Donations Really Go
> Posted: 4:03 pm EDT May 14, 2009Updated: 4:20 pm EDT May 14, 2009
>
> ATLANTA — A Channel 2 investigation is looking into millions of
> dollars
> in donations given to the Humane Society of the United States.
>
> A national consumer organization says the society solicits pet-lovers
> for money, but little to none of that money ever goes to help local
> shelters…..
>
> (The rest of the story at the link above.)
>
> Here’s a UTube link to the actual program:
>
> http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ta8GdABQPHA
>
> NAIA News
> National Animal Interest Alliance
>
>
From Bill Hembly, founder of PetPac:
HSUS raises and spends millions of dollars every year on the fight to take away our rights as pet owners. This ABC News story clearly documents (http://petpac.net/r/24457/13042/0) what were up against in our struggle to stop the anti-pet legislation they support. We know we can’t begin to match their money so we stretch the funds that you donate as far as we can. Once again we are asking for you to make a contribution so we can continue the daily battle. PetPAC has proved that in every instance where we have had an opportunity to expose the real truth we have stopped PETA and HSUS cold.
It is extremely important that we continue the effort to have our voices heard, sign the petition today and take the time let your elected officials know that we, who are pet owners, are responsible, productive members of our communities, and we want to preserve our right of animal ownership without interference from government.
Please got to the following link and click on the button for
“Stop HSUS”.
Please take 15 seconds out of your time to sign the PetPac
petition to President Obama stating that you don’t want PETA and the HSUS to speak for you & your rights as pet owners, breeders &
exhibitors. If you have time please forward to other concerned “dog people”.
PetPAC: Sign the Petitions! to President Obama telling him that we have our rights as pet owners, breeders and exhibitors. Go to the PetPac Website:
http://www.petpac.net/tell/petitions/
Please read the following link regarding the exposure of HSUS .
We need to make the animal community aware of this inappropriate
organization
PetPAC: Story Exposing HSUS Buried: Read Transcript
<http://petpac.net/news/headlines/story_exposing_hsus_buried_read_transc
ript/>
Bill Hemby
The National Alliance for Interests of Animals founded by Patty Strand had been on the forefront of fighting against the animal rights groups and anti dog ownership legislation for years. Another Organization called Pet Pac was formed to fight the legislation that was proposed in California last year; the bill was defeated but a new one has taken its place and has already passed the Senate in California. A new bill in Ohio, worse than the one we defeated last year, has been introduced. So many states and communities, so many attempts to end our rights to own pets. Please do your part. The billboard below is a great idea. If we could all put one in our communities, we could surely make a statement. Go to the following site and read more:
http://www.exposeanimalrights.com/
Sent to me a couple of days ago on my email. Please read and feel free to cross post.
Today the ABC Atlanta news story exposing the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) questionable fundraising practices became even more controversial when the station contacted PetPAC demanding we take down the transcript of the story.
The story appeared on Channel 2 in Atlanta over a week ago and soon after HSUS apparently initiated a campaign to cover up the story from being told.
The video of the news story was mysteriously taken down from the station’s archives and You Tube, most likely the result of HSUS demands.
Why the cover up? The investigative report exposed how HSUS raises hundreds of millions of dollars but contributes virtually nothing to help support local animal shelters as their solicitations often seem to imply.
Here’s a transcript of the news story sent to us by a member. We believe the United States Constitution guarantees our freedom of political speech to send this to you. http://petpac.net/r/26870/13042/0
The power of an organization which raises hundreds of millions of dollars like HSUS is immense. If they are trying to cover up this story, we simply would like to know why. We look forward to hearing their side of the story, but to date they have not issued a denial of the investigative report exposing their suspect fundraising practices.
We will continue to keep you informed.
Sincerely,
Bill Hemby
PetPAC Chairman
I am sick of the lies told by HSUS and PETA claiming they are for the welfare of animals when they are mostly for the welfare of their earnings even as non profits.
Take a look at this site if you want to be able to share what the HSUS is really up to. Has some other great information also.
From my friend Vivian—
Put your political feelings aside if you don’t like the new
administration, but please take the time to email President Obama and Vice President Biden on selecting the dogs that they each truly wanted and would work for them and NOT bending to the collective wills of PETA and HSUS. There is a website for the President and the VP where you can do this. Also, Senator Kennedy needs an atta boy on helping support the goals of the AKC by using a reputable breeder. While you’re at it with him, put a bug in his ear and ask for federal legislation to stop these folks and make sure you mention the part about PETA, the IRS investigation, and home-grown terrorists.
The breeder of the Biden’s new puppy has been under attack and received death threats. Guess who that could have been? She has been quoted as saying she will never again sell to a high profile individual. I’m sure the Portie folks are in for it next. This only takes a few minutes to email each of these individuals and tell them of your support as other responsible dog owners and breeders. Thank you.
And more on the very, very hard time that the animal rightists have given the breeder of VP Joe Biden’s dog has gotten since she sold the German Shepherd puppy to VP Biden. If you do not think that PETA wants to eradicate purebred breeders, please read below:
cross posted from another list with permission.
AR mad at VP & Breeder
By GRETCHEN METZ, Staff Writer
EAST COVENTRY — It was a proud moment for Linda Brown when then-Vice President-elect Joe Biden selected her kennel to purchase his new German shepherd puppy.
That was in mid-December.
For Brown, that proud moment was short-lived.
After the story about the puppy sale ran in the newspapers and on TV newscasts, three dog wardens from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture showed up on Brown’s doorstep for a kennel inspection.
And they showed up again and again for four visits over four months.
She said she has also received death threats from animal activists against her and Biden, which were reported to the Secret Service and the FBI.
Bob Slama, special agent in charge of the Secret Service’s Philadelphia field office, said the agency “cannot comment on an ongoing investigation.”
J.J. Klaver, special agent at the Philadelphia field office of the FBI, said his agency is not investigating the matter at this time.
“I thought when Joe Biden bought a puppy from me, what an honor,” Brown said. “Out of millions of breeders in the country, in the world, he picked me.”
The glow dimmed almost immediately.
Following a story about Brown and Biden in the Daily Local News, readers posted 131 comments, some chiding Biden for having the Secret Service with him when he went puppy shopping and others complaining he did not get the dog from a shelter.
Brown was taken to task for selling pedigree dogs.
Brown said she has read the comments, even the one that said she was sued.
“I’d like to meet that person,” Brown said, adding that she has not been sued.
Some people were outraged about the photograph of Biden holding a 5-week-old puppy, Brown said. But, the breeder points out, Biden only came to select a puppy on that visit, left it with its mother and returned three weeks later to take it home.
Brown was not only vilified in posted comments to newspapers but also on he Web site of People for the Ethical Treatment Animals, or PETA.
According to a Dec. 12 press release from the animal rights group, it aired its controversial TV commercials “Buy One, Get One Killed” in Biden’s home state of Delaware after he bought his dog from Brown. The commercial blames euthanization of animals in shelters on people who purchase pets from breeders.
Brown also was cited for record-keeping problems and warned about maintenance and sanitation shortfalls by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
“I was cited for a piece of kibble on the floor and five strands of dog hair. They took a picture of that, they walked around, snapped pictures and don’t tell you why,” said Brown, who disputes all the items where she was written up.
Brown’s case was heard by District Justice James DeAngelo in South Coventry on March 31. She was found “not guilty” for each citation, the judge’s office confirmed Wednesday.
Chris Ryder, press secretary for the Department of Agriculture, said Brown was inspected in December because of a complaint. He said it was department policy not to release the name of the person who complained.
Brown’s kennel, Wolf Den, was inspected twice a year by the agency and routinely had satisfactory reports until December 2008 when it had seven unsatisfactory inspection results out of 26, according to the inspection records on the agency’s Web site.
Ryder said the inspectors returned as a matter of follow-up to determine if the unsatisfactory matters had been taken care of. He said more than one inspector was brought in because Brown runs a large kennel.
Before going to court, Brown had to hire a lawyer. So far her legal fees are $4,000, she said.
“Never, never, never again,” Brown said about selling a dog to anyone with a high profile.
Brown said she gets her breeding stock from Germany. Each dog costs between $5,000 and $10,000.
“If I paid that much for them, don’t you think I’d treat them pretty good?” Brown asks.
While the First Family was shopping for a Portuguese water dog, Brown said those breeders were getting in touch with her to find out what her experience had been like.
Brown has a few words for them. “It’s been horrific since December,” she said.
————————————
It is great that President Obama chose a pure bred dog from a breeder for his family’s personal dog. I am sure that the animal rightists will be attacking President Obama for his choice of a purebred just as they have blatantly attached Vice President Biden for choosing a German Shepherd from a breeder. The campaign of the HSUS that everytime one gets a purebred dog, it causes the death of a shelter dog is shameful. With a purebred dog, one has an idea of development, temperament, personality, and possible genetic problems. One has no idea with a shelter dog. I have a rescue dog and would not trade him for the world. I will certainly adopt another rescue dog when the time is right, but do not take away my right to chose to own purebreds!!!
Since Proposition 2 passed in California, HSUS has now targeted Ohio as its next state to overturn traditional ways of livestock farming. Have there been abusive situations of raising livestock, absolutely! Should livestock be treated humanely and slaughtered humanely, absolutely. Should livestock farming be targeted by those who know nothing about raising livestock with the intent of changing how we raise livestock, absolutely NOT! Do you remember a couple of winters ago when Colorado cattle where starving in severe blizzards because the snow was too deep to get to grass? The Governor of Colorado asked the HSUS to help with airlifts of hay to the starving cattle. The HSUS refused, responding better the cattle starve than be enslaved in ownership. So much for caring about the welfare of animals. The HSUS, which by the way is not affiliated with local humane societies; It is not the NATIONAL Humane Society. It does nothing with animal welfare, just animal rights.
An update on what is going on right now in the country from the Sportsmen and Animal Owners Voting Alliance:
SAOVA message to sportsmen, pet owners and farmers concerned about protecting their traditions, avocations and livelihoods from anti-hunting, anti-breeding, animal guardianship advocates. Forwarding and cross posting, with attribution, encouraged.
Prop2 Coming to Ohio; Rallying against animal rightist bills
Ohio cattlemen hear what’s hot: HSUS, OSU Extension cuts
by Susan Mykrantz, Farm and Dairy News Monday, April 6, 2009
ASHLAND, Ohio — Just when livestock producers are finding ways to clear the murky waters of low commodity prices and high input prices, comes another deluge of challenges in the form of steep funding cuts to the Ohio State University Extension and assaults from the Humane Society of the United States.
Producers are being targeted by groups determined to either change the way animal agriculture does business or put it out of business altogether, according to John Fitzpatrick, organization director for Ashland/Medina/Wayne County Farm Bureaus.
Following a preview of a multimedia presentation, Veal Calves and Cull Cows, Fitzpatrick told producers and industry representatives attending the Ashland County Cattlemen’s annual meeting that the Humane Society of the United States has targeted Ohio as their next state to pass legislation similar to Proposition 2 that was passed in California.
Fitzpatrick told the cattlemen that the HSUS is not connected with the local humane society in any way.
What you can do
All of agriculture needs to band together and tell its story to the public. “Don’t be afraid to speak up on behalf of agriculture,†he said. “You need to be willing to speak to the media, we all need to tell the same story.â€
Full story at the link:
http://www.farmanddairy.com/news/ohio-cattlemen-hear-whats-hot-hsus-osu-extension-cuts/11659.html
http://tinyurl.com/d2pbzk
UPDATES ON CURRENT STATE LEGISLATION
ALABAMA
OPPOSE. SB 554 Sterilization of private dogs, cats required.
Requires the sterilization of all privately owned dogs and cats within the state with certain specified exceptions. This bill would also provide that the owner of a dog or cat over 6 months of age that has not been sterilized and that is the subject of a complaint to a local animal control agency, as specified, may be cited and, if cited, must pay a civil penalty to the local animal agency within 30 days.
Talking points:
* The proposed legislation allows for complaints from the general public to be included in the process toward mandated spay/neuter. Complaints can be for anything other than noise and do not need to be verified. The complaint-driven section is totally flawed.
* Spay/Neuter is an important medical decision that should be made for each individual pet only after careful consultation with the pet’s veterinarian, not mandated by the government
* Imposes state-mandated one-size-fits-all solution thereby removing any discretion from local officials, who know better than state officials how to handle problems in their community
* Exemptions for hunting, herding, detection or service dogs while working off their owner’s property are not included
Additional talking points are posted on the SAOVA website along with bill information, tracking, and contact information for Judiciary Committee members. http://saova.org/alabama.html
CALIFORNIA ACTION ALERT
OPPOSE. SB 250 Spaying and Neutering makes it illegal to own, keep or harbor a dog with intact sexual organs, except as specified. Makes it illegal to have an intact cat remain outdoors. Requires certificate of sterility as proof. Requires reporting of the sale of an unaltered cat or dog. Requires sterilization of any cat or dog impounded for any reason – even on first offense; or for violation of this law if cited for violation of other law.
A hearing is scheduled in Senate Local Government Committee for April 15, 2009 in Sacramento. Phone or fax your opposition now.
Committee Members:
Senator Patricia Wiggins, Chair
Phone: (916) 651-4002 Fax: (916) 323-6958 Senator.Wiggins@senate.ca.gov
Senator Dave Cox, Vice-Chair
Phone: (916) 651-4001 Fax: (916) 324-2680 Senator.Cox@senate.ca.gov
Senator Samuel Aanestad
Phone: (916) 651-4004 Fax: (916) 445-7750 Senator.Aanestad@senate.ca.gov
Senator Christine Kehoe
Phone: (916) 651-4039 Fax: (916) 327-2188 Senator.Kehoe@senate.ca.gov
Senator Lois Wolk Phone:
(916) 651-4005 Fax: (916) 323-2304 Senator.Wolk@senate.ca.gov
* Spay/Neuter is an important medical decision that should be made for each individual pet only after careful consultation with the pet’s veterinarian, not mandated by the government
* Imposes state-mandated one-size-fits-all solution thereby removing any discretion from local officials, who know better than state officials how to handle problems in their community
* Forced sterilization adds more costs to pet owners and already overburdened local governments.
* Areas which have passed this type of legislation have failed to see success in lessening animal abandonment
CALIFORNIA ACTION ALERT
OPPOSE. AB 241 Dogs and cats: breeders. AB 241 makes illegal to have more than a combined total of 50 dogs and cats with intact sexual organs. Authorizes certain officers to investigate a violation of such provisions, and to lawfully take possession of an animal kept in violation of existing law. Hearing scheduled April 14 in Committee on Public Safety
http://www.assembly.ca.gov/acs/newcomframeset.asp?committee=57
Committee Fax (916) 319-3745
Jose Solorio, Chair (916) 319-2069 Assemblymember.solorio@assembly.ca.gov
Curt Hagman, Vice Chair (916) 319-2060 Assemblymember.Hagman@assembly.ca.gov
Warren Furutani (916) 319-2055 Assemblymember.Furutani@assembly.ca.gov
Danny Gilmore (916) 319-2030 Assemblymember.Gilmore@assembly.ca.gov
Jerry Hill (916) 319-2019 Assemblymember.Hill@assembly.ca.gov
Fiona Ma (916) 319-2012 Assemblymember.Ma@assembly.ca.gov
Nancy Skinner (916) 319-2014 Assemblymember.Skinner@assembly.ca.gov
MAINE ACTION ALERT
OPPOSE LD 964. Proposes unnecessary over-regulation of dog breeders establishing 3 categories of kennels with excessive kennel fees. The bill amends the definition of “breeding kennel” to specify that 5 or more female dogs capable of breeding are the threshold for needing a breeding kennel license. Adds new requirement that veterinarian must examine animal prior to sale. Creates a conditional license and fee before kennel license can be issued. Allows the Department of Agriculture to charge a fee up to 50% of the kennel license for follow-up inspections. Hearing is scheduled Apr 15, 2009, 0100PM by the Committee on Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. Contact the Committee: http://maine.gov/legis/house/jt_com/acf.htm.
ACTION NEEDED. LD 186 Possession of Animal Fighting Paraphernalia.
LD 186 is being heavily lobbied by HSUS and the animal rights forces in Maine. Criminal Justice Committee members discussed the merits of the bill. Representative Hanley (D-Gardiner) and Representative Sykes (R-Harrison) both expressed serious reservations that this bill was attempting to solve a problem that didn’t exist. Representative Hanley reported that according to the Department of Public Safety there have been no convictions for animal fighting in the state in more than 40 years, and only one report (never confirmed) of such activity.
Senator Stan Gerzofsky (D- Brunswick), who is the Committee chair, then spoke. He stated that as a former dog trainer he is very familiar with dog ownership, dog training and the sport of Schutzhund, as well as AKC standards governing these activities. Many of the items that might otherwise be characterized as animal fighting paraphernalia are also appropriately used in training dogs. While he finds dog fighting abhorrent, he noted that there are already laws in existence that can sufficiently address the issue. Further, given his familiarity with the subject, he is adamantly opposed to any legislation that would in any way limit the lawful activities of dog trainers. The Committee vote was 9-2 Ought Not To Pass, with Senator Davis and Representative Schatz opposed.
The animal rights movement in Maine has continued to lobby for the minority ought to pass amended bill. LD 186 was presented to the House April 8 where the Ought Not To Pass Report was accepted by a vote of 122-20. April 9 it was heard by the Senate; Senator Gerzofsky motioned to accept the majority Ought Not To Pass Report and Senator Nutting motioned to table the bill for further discussion.
What you can do:
Contact Senator Gerzofsky and support his stand on LD 186 Ought Not To Pass
http://www.mainesenate.org/gerzofsky/email.htm Senate President’s Office: 207-287-1500
Contact Senator Nutting and express your concern about his continued support of LD 186. http://www.mainesenate.org/nutting/email.htm
Senate Democratic Office: 207-287-1515
Contact members of the Maine Senate and urge them to vote Ought Not To Pass. http://www.maine.gov/legis/senate/senators/email/maillst.htm
Find additional information at http://saova.org/Maine.html
VICTORY IN MINNESOTA: HF 253 defining as a commercial breeder anyone owning or having interest in 20 intact dogs has been tabled indefinitely.
VICTORY IN MONTANNA: HB 548 defining as commercial anyone selling 20 dogs annually has been defeated.
NORTH CAROLINA
OPPOSE. HB733/SB460 Regulate Commercial Dog Breeding. Defines as Commercial Breeder anyone maintaining or having control of 15 intact females within a 12 month period. The bills are based on numerous emotional assumptions that breeder/owners with 15 females are keeping them in crowded, unsanitary conditions for mass-production. The bill also assumes that an owner of this number of dogs isn’t capable of managing a kennel and maintaining dogs in good health without state intervention. Mandates veterinary health certificate prior to breeding. Mandates facilities, record keeping; allows inspection of kennel and private property.
OPPOSE. HB626/SB695 Restraining Of Dogs. Limits tethering to 9 hours in 24; exemption only while dogs are actively hunting or herding. Allows local government to reduce time limit.
OPPOSE. SB515/SB739 Prohibit Penning of Wildlife. Will close fox pens in North Carolina. Eliminates safe training for hounds and eliminates the need for the many small businesses across the state of North Carolina that provide hound hunters with supplies.
For additional talking points, contact information and downloadable form letters visit http://www.saova.org/northcarolina.html
TENNESSEE ACTION ALERT:
OPPOSE. HB 386 introduced by Rep. Janis Sontany (D, Nashville) will classify a Commercial Breeder as any person who possesses or maintains twenty (20) or more adult female dogs in whole or in part for the purpose of the sale of their offspring as companion animals. HB 386 will allow the state to outsource some animal control work to HSUS or other outside animal organizations. The bill was passed by the House Subcommittee on Civil Practice & Procedure. Recommended for passage w/amendments – refer to: Judiciary Committee 4/7/2009. Voice Vote – Ayes Prevail Rep(s). Representatives Dennis and Kelsey requested to be recorded as voting No. The Judiciary Committee is scheduled to hear HB 386 on 4/15.
Go to http://www.saova.org/Tennessee.html for Judiciary Committee contact information.
TEXAS
Texas dog owners have been exceptionally hard hit this year with animal rightist legislation. RPOA Texas Outreach has all bills linked along with talking points.
http://www.rpoatexasoutreach.org/Texas_Bills_Filled_Summary.htm
Lone Star State American Pit Bull Terrier Club website also maintains a list of bills and update information: http://lsspbc.com/blog/2009/03/13/txbills/
VICTORY IN WEST VIRGINIA: HB2843 defining as a commercial breeder anyone who maintains interest in 20 intact dogs did not pass out of committee before the April 1st deadline.
Watch the SAOVA website for continued updates.
Please share this message widely.
Susan Wolf
Sportsmen’s and Animal Owners’ Voting Alliance – http://saova.org
Issue lobbying and working to identify and elect supportive legislators
The message above was posted to West Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa and Missouri residents by the Sportsmen’s and Animal Owners’ Voting Alliance (SAOVA) on one of ten regional read only elists.
SAOVA is a nonpartisan volunteer group working to protect Americans from the legislative and political threats of radical animal rightists. It is the only national organization fighting this struggle for both sportsmen and animal owners, natural allies, in these arenas. Visit our website at http://saova.org for this program’s goals, methodology and list signup details.
The Animal Rights groups pushing all the anti-dog and anti breeding legislation say they are concerned with animal welfare. Animal welfare and rights are two totally different concepts in my view. Dogs have contributed so much to us: war dogs, hearing dogs, seeing eye dogs, therapy dogs, herding dogs, guard dogs, scent and rescue dogs, beloved pets–the list could go on and on about how dogs and humans work together and love each other. All of the dog related bills being proposed throughout this county will do serious damage to all of us breeders and pet owners alike. I know that I can not live without my dogs. The following story is sweet and one more example of how we benefit from the dogs in our lives.
Mary and her husband Jim had a dog named ‘Lucky.’ Lucky was a real character. Whenever Mary and Jim had company come for a weekend visit they would warn their friends to not leave their luggage open because Lucky would help himself to whatever struck his fancy. Inevitably, someone would forget and something would come up missing.
Mary or Jim would go to Lucky’s toy box in the basement and there the treasure would be, amid all of Lucky’s other favorite toys Lucky always stashed his finds in his toy box and he was very particular that his toys stay in the box.
It happened that Mary found out she had breast cancer. Something told her she was going to die of this disease….in fact; she was just sure it was fatal. She scheduled the double mastectomy, fear riding her shoulders. The night before she was to go to the hospital she cuddled with Lucky. A thought struck her…what would happen to Lucky? Although the three-year-old dog liked Jim, he was Mary’s dog through and through. If I die, Lucky will be abandoned, Mary thought. He won’t understand that I didn’t want to leave him! The thought made her sadder than thinking of her own death.
The double mastectomy was harder on Mary than her doctors had anticipated and Mary was hospitalized for over two weeks. Jim took Lucky for his evening walk faithfully, but the little dog just drooped, whining and miserable.
Finally the day came for Mary to leave the hospital. When she arrived home, Mary was so exhausted she couldn’t even make it up the steps to her bedroom. Jim made his wife comfortable on the couch and left her to nap. Lucky stood watching Mary but he didn’t come to her when she called. It made Mary sad but sleep soon overcame her and she dozed.
When Mary woke for a second she couldn’t understand what was wrong. She couldn’t move her head and her body felt heavy and hot. But panic soon gave way to laughter when Mary realized the problem. She was covered, literally blanketed, with every treasure Lucky owned! While she had slept, the sorrowing dog had made trip after trip to the basement bringing his beloved mistress all his favorite things in life. He had covered her with his love.
Mary forgot about dying. Instead she and Lucky began living again, walking further and further together every day. It’s been 12 years now and Mary is still cancer-free. Lucky He still steals treasures and stashes them in his toy box but Mary remains his greatest treasure.
Remember….live every day to the fullest. Each minute is a blessing from God. And never forget….the people who make a difference in our lives are not the ones with the most Credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They are the ones that care for us.
If you see someone without a smile today give them one of yours! Live simply. Love seriously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God
Posted in ANIMAL RIGHTS AGENDA, Heartwarming Vignettes | 
Tags: ANIMAL RIGHTS AGENDA | 
Comments Closed
Tonight HBO featured an expose of inhumane practices on a hog farm in Wayne County, Ohio. It seems that an undercover investigator was hired by an association for Humane Farming (I cannot remember the exact name) to visit a large hog farm in Wayne County and document inhumane practices. The videos shown of old or sick hogs being euthanized by hanging from a forklift after having a chain put around the neck and hoisted were awful. The videos of the weaning of piglets being taken from the sows and literally thrown by a foot or an ear into holding tanks or vehicles were an assault to the emotions of animal lovers whether meat eaters or not. The farm owners in question were put on trial for animal cruelty, but after testimony from veterinarians as to what constitutes animal cruelty as outlined by the law in euthanasia and in hog farming, the prosecutor only got one conviction and it was not on the euthanasia. Personally, I feel like the farmers in question needed to be hung from a forklift and slung by their ears.
This trial has given the HSUS more ammunition in its animal rights agenda. The HSUS has infiltrated so many areas of animal husbandry, including farming and dog breeding. While NO ONE wants to see cruelty of animals, the majority of Americans also do not want to be forced into becoming Vegans! There must be a middle ground. However, the practices of this one farm in Wayne County have opened the floodgates to the HSUS taking on the farm industry in Ohio without knowing much about farming and animal husbandry. I repeat, no one wants to see farm animals abused in their lives or in the slaughtering for food, but the HSUS agenda is to eliminate the supposed enslavement of animals so that there will be no animals raised for meat, eggs, hides, or by products! It will take a lot of lettuce and other vegetables and grains to feed the world without animal protein available.
Following is a report that I received today about more HSUS activity: (WRITE YOUR NATIONAL LEGISLATOR NOW ABOUT HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT HSUS PROMOTING ITS AGENDA SO BLATANTLY.
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) couldn’t be happier
with the formation of a new group of Congressmen that will promote its agenda.
On February 18, U.S. Representatives Jim Moran (D- VA) and Elton
Gallegy (R- CA) announced the formation of a new Congressional Animal Protection Caucus. The goal of the group is to get like-minded members of Congress together and promote animal rights policy in Washington, D.C. through forums and briefings.
According to the Humane Society Legislative Fund (HSLF), the
legislative wing of the HSUS, the new caucus will “take lawmaking for the animals to the next level.” HSLF went on to gush in its blog, “we could not be more excited about their leadership of this new
organization of humane lawmakers.”
HSUS President and CEO, Wayne Pacelle was also prominently quoted in Rep. Moran’s press release announcing the caucus’ formation.
Pacelle stated, “The newly constituted Congressional Animal Protection Caucus will help better align our federal policies with public opinion, and we are excited to work closely with its leaders and with the entire Congress to combat cruelty and abuse.”
As of press time, a full list of other U.S. Representatives joining
the caucus was not available. However, the USSA will let sportsmen
know as the names become available. Each member of the caucus should be contacted by constituents in their districts.
Representatives should be made aware of HSUS’ radical anti-hunting
agenda. They also need to be aware that sportsmen expect their
representatives not to kowtow to that agenda.
And from the the Sportsmen’s and Animal Owner’s Voting Alliance www.saova.org
UPDATE ON THE HSUS NATIONWIDE ASSAULT AGAINST DOG BREEDERS AND ANIMAL OWNERS. This may be long but read through the following to get an idea of national movements:
ILLINOIS
VICTORY in Chicago!! Ald. Ed Burke (D-14) found he did not have the votes he
thought were wrapped up for his mandatory spay/neuter bill and did not call
for a vote. According to the Chicago Tribune, Ald. Ray Suarez (31st)
appeared to oppose. “It really doesn’t make a lot of sense when you tell me
what a dog owner can do,” Suarez said. Ald. Ed Smith (28th) also said he was
opposed to it, after questioning how much it would do to prevent dog
attacks. “We’re on the wrong track,” he said. An underlying sentiment of
many aldermen was frustration at being forced to spend so much time on this
item rather than critical issues such as crime, budgets, and the economy.
Congratulations to all the hardworking dog clubs and special thanks to Dr.
Shannon Greeley (CVMA), Dr. Rubin (ISVMA) and Steve Dale for their
unwavering support.
OPPOSE SB 53 / HB 198 Licensing Dog Breeder. All information and bill links
can be found on the SAOVA website along with easy to use email tools.
http://www.saova.org/Illinois.html
SB 53 has been slightly amended eliminating the beginning point for
licensing of 3 intact females. However, overly strict kennel standards,
excessive reporting, and unreasonable disclosures to purchasers remain. The
bill has no merit and is flawed beyond repair. SB 53 is scheduled to be
read for the 2nd time in Licensed Activities on March 17th.
SAOVA commends Senators Gary Dahl (R-38) and Chris Lauzen (R-25); and
Representatives Sandy Cole (R-62), Angelo Saviano (R-77), and Al Riley
(D-38) for removing themselves as cosponsors.
MAINE
HP 666, LD 964 An Act Pertaining to the Breeding and Selling of Dogs and
Cats, introduced by Representative Wendy Pieh (D-Bremen) 3/10 and referred
3/12 to the Committee on Agriculture, Conservation And Forestry and sent for
concurrence.
OPPOSE: HP 666, LD 964 is unnecessary over-regulation of dog breeders with
excessive kennel fees. The bill amends the definition of “breeding kennel”
to specify that 5 or more female dogs capable of breeding are the threshold
for needing a breeding kennel license.
HP 666, LD 964 establishes 3 categories of breeding kennels:
A. A breeding kennel that maintains at least 5 but no more than 10 female
dogs or cats capable of breeding is a Category 1 breeding kennel. (Fee $75)
B. A breeding kennel that maintains at least 11 but no more than 20 female
dogs or cats capable of breeding is a Category 2 breeding kennel. (Fee $250)
C. A breeding kennel that maintains 21 or more female dogs or cats capable
of breeding is a Category 3 breeding kennel. (Fee $500)
HP 666, LD 964 creates “conditional licensing” for new applicants until
inspections are performed and the kennel passes to the satisfaction of the
state inspectors. HP 666, LD 964 establishes fees for follow-up inspections
following an infraction. Should two or more follow-up inspections be needed
in any calendar year, the department shall charge the licensee a fee equal
to 50% of the original license fee for each follow-up inspection. If
documents necessary for registration of a dog or cat with a pedigree
registry are not provided to the buyer within 60 days of sale, the buyer is
entitled to a refund of 50% of the sale price. It also adds a new
requirement that a veterinarian must examine animal prior to sale.
Full text of HP0666, LD 964 can be found here:
http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=964
<http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=964&snum=124>
&snum=124
Find Maine House Members here: http://www.maine.gov/legis/house/hbiolist.htm
Find Maine Senate Members here:
http://www.state.me.us/legis/senate/senators/index.htm
For more information go to http://saova.org/maine.html or contact Ann Short
jasbrittanys@comcast.net
MARYLAND
VICTORY in Maryland for dog breeders! SB318 would have mandated rigid
engineering standards and detailed exercise regulations for anyone owning 10
or more intact dogs. The measure also would have limited breeders to owning
no more than 50 “breeding” dogs over the age of four months. The Maryland
Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee rejected this restrictive and costly
legislation.
NORTH CAROLINA
SB 515 Prohibit Penning Of Wildlife. Sponsor: Senator Neal Hunt (R-Wake).
OPPOSE SB 515: The HSUS animal rights agenda does not need a platform in
North Carolina law. Fox preserves are highly regulated by our NC Wildlife
Resources Commission, consist of hundreds of acres, and contain structures
in which the fox can hide. Hunters and their families can run and train the
dogs to perform what they have been bred to do for centuries. In typical
anti-hunting, animal rights fashion, HSUS is distributing propaganda that
penning is a bloody and barbaric sport. Amazingly, Sen. Hunt chose to
believe the HSUS spin and agreed to introduce legislation that will close
ALL fox pens in North Carolina. SB 515 has been referred to the Senate
Committee on Agriculture/Environment/Natural Resources.
ACTION REQUEST: Contact the Senate Ag Committee:
http://www.ncleg.net/gascripts/Committees/Committees.asp?sAction=ViewCommitt
ee
<http://www.ncleg.net/gascripts/Committees/Committees.asp?sAction=ViewCommit
tee&sActionDetails=Senate%20Standing_66>
&sActionDetails=Senate%20Standing_66
OPPOSE: SB 460 / HB 460 Commercial Dog Breeders; adds commercial breeder,
commercial breeding operations to SECTION 1 G.S. 19A-21 as a category along
with pet shops and boarding kennels for the purpose of licensing, regulation
and inspection.
(5a) “Commercial breeder” means any person who, during any 12-month period,
maintains 15 or more adult female dogs for the primary purpose of the sale
of their offspring as companion animals. (5b) “Commercial breeding
operation” means the physical location or facility at which a commercial
breeder breeds or maintains adult female dogs and their offspring.” It
mandates standards for care at commercial breeding operations, including
requirements for exercise, veterinary care and record keeping to be written
by the NC Department of Agriculture at a later date and adds annual
veterinary exam and certification for females before breeding.
ACTION REQUEST: Contact the Senate Commerce Committee:
http://www.ncleg.net/gascripts/Committees/Committees.asp?sAction=ViewCommitt
ee
<http://www.ncleg.net/gascripts/Committees/Committees.asp?sAction=ViewCommit
tee&sActionDetails=Senate%20Standing_67>
&sActionDetails=Senate%20Standing_67
This is reactive legislation to the recent closure of a substandard kennel
in Wayne County widely publicized by HSUS. Closing of the kennel and removal
of the dogs is evidence that current law adequately dealt with the
situation. State licensing and regulation as a commercial entity will end
dog breeding for anyone in a residential zoned area. The impact in
rural-residential zoned areas will depend on zoning ordinances already in
place for each county and the final requirements for housing established by
the NC Department of Agriculture.
The bills define as commercial anyone maintaining 15 females during the span
of 12 months; does not say intact females, does not define what age is
considered adult. The requirement for annual veterinary certification of
suitable health for breeding is very vague. Certification could require
anything from routine physical exam to an expensive panel of blood tests and
x-rays. There is no definition of suitable health for breeding. The bill
prohibits breeding females less than 18 months or more than 8 years. This is
a precursor for state mandated breeding restrictions.
More information and contacts here: http://www.saova.org/northcarolina.html
TENNESSEE
OPPOSE SB 258: Commercial Breeder Act
Find talking points and contact information here:
http://www.saova.org/Tennessee.html
Senate Bill 258, sponsored by Sen. Doug Jackson (D-25) and House Bill 386,
sponsored by Rep. Janis Baird Sontany (D-53) places breeding of purebred
dogs under criminal animal cruelty statutes. The bills classify a Commercial
breeder as any person who possesses or maintains twenty (20) or more adult
female dogs in whole or in part for the purpose of the sale of their
offspring as companion animals. If even one litter of puppies is produced, a
commercial breeder licensing would be required. Ownership of 75 is the
absolute limit. Background checks will be required for applicants, and the
state will determine if the applicant is of good moral character and
deserving of the license.
HSUS State Director, Leighann McCollum, responding on behalf of Sen. Doug
Jackson confirmed that USDA regulations currently in effect under the Dog
and Cat Dealer Act (44-17-101) will be required for the new commercial
breeder kennels. Senate Bill 258 was referred to Senate Committee Commerce
Labor & Agriculture Feb. 19; no hearings are scheduled at this time.
TEXAS
HB 458 Pet Limits in Counties. Sponsored by Rep. David Lieberman (D-117).
OPPOSE: Allows counties to impose dog limit laws in unincorporated areas,
changing the rules on pet owners who have bought homes with no HOA or
dog-related deed restrictions.
ACTION REQUEST: HB 458 is scheduled for a hearing Monday, March 16th, 2 PM
in E2.016 at the State Capitol, Austin. If you cannot attend the hearing
please call or fax.
SB 634 Relating to the unlawful restraint of a dog. Sponsored by Sen. Ken
Seliger (R-31)
HB 2001 Companion bill Sponsored by Rep. Brian McCall (R-66)
OPPOSE: Would prohibit tethering under any condition, mandates 150 SF kennel
requirements, does not allow dogs to be outside unattended at all during
inclement weather (hunting dogs are not exempt). Requirements are
unreasonable for lower income and elderly dog owners and will result in
increased kill rates at shelters due to owner surrenders, or more dogs at
large and therefore dog bites.
SB 554 An act relating to conduct constituting the offense of dog fighting
and to the criminal and civil consequences of committing that offense;
sponsored by Sen. John Whitmire (D-15).
OPPOSE: Criminalizes the ownership of “dog fighting equipment,” with the
intent that the equipment be used to train a dog for fighting, including
items common to show and working dog owners: harness, treadmill, cage,
decoy, pen, house for keeping a dog, feeding apparatus or training pen.
Intent is difficult to prove and would likely be applied selectively based
on breed of dog.
ACTION REQUEST: SB 554 is scheduled for a hearing March 17th , 1:30 PM in
E1.016 (Hearing Room) State Capitol, Austin. If you cannot attend the
hearing please call or fax.
SB 1845 Relating to the sterilization of dogs and cats; providing a penalty.
Sponsored by Sen. Leticia Van de Putte (D-26)
HB 4277 Identical bill by Rep. Jose Menendez (D-124)
OPPOSE: These are statewide mandatory spay/neuter bills for dogs and cats
over 6 months of age.
HB 3180 Relating to the licensing and regulation of commercial dog and cat
breeders and the regulation of dog and cat dealers; providing penalties.
Sponsored by Rep. Senfronio Thompson (D-81)
SB 1910 Identical bill sponsored by Sen. John Whitmire (D-15).
OPPOSE: Imposes excessive reporting; stringent kennel standards, grooming,
exercise, socialization, and breeding standards. Defines commercial breeder
as anyone who possesses 11 or more adult intact females; breeder may not
possess more than 50 at any time.
Text of bills, summaries, contact information, action alerts can be found
at:
Lone Star State American Pit Bull Terrier Club
http://lsspbc.com/blog/2009/03/13/txbills/
Responsible Pet Owners Alliance www.rpoatexasoutreach.org
<http://www.rpoatexasoutreach.org/>
Please share this message widely.
Susan Wolf
Sportsmen’s and Animal Owners’ Voting Alliance - <http://saova.org>
http://saova.org
Issue lobbying and working to identify and elect supportive legislators
<
All of you in Texas had best get busy…
you are facing Mandatory Spay Neuter of ALL dogs as of September 1, 2009.
It is strongly urged that everyone dog lover, whether breeder or not, in Texas to pay attention to this, and to contact your state representatives and senators. It’s finally come to you. How independent Texas has allowed itself to be infiltrated by the animal rightists is unbelievable. Look no further than the dog warden of Dallas who has been profiled on national TV because of his methods of seizing and then selling dogs from breeders usually with little or no real proof of abuse or neglect. His eighty thousand dollar salary has to come from somewhere. If he seizes dogs, there is seemingly no way for their owners to ever get them back.
Those of you who call Texas home can’t avoid it or live in denial that such things would never happen in Texas. The animal rights people have wormed their way into your government, in order to further their agenda, and they don’t care whose constitutional
rights are trampled on. It is imperative that you support the organizations
who are fighting for us, and in Texas, that’s the RPOA– Responsible Pet
Owners Association– at www.rpoatexasoutreach.org Their website is under
construction, but there is a PayPal link there for donations.
The time is NOW, to let your government officials know just how you feel
about this kind of legislation!
Texas SB 1845 has been filed and will be heard in the Senate before the end
of next week…
There is ONE very narrow exemption for show dogs…and only then with a
permit………the proposed price for a permit to keep an intact animal is
$300 (each)…….
This bill has subsections with completely NEW language (Section
828)………and if this passes, Texas can probably wave goodbye to most of the purebred dog population.
Yes, it seems impossible………..but if y’all don’t raise the devil with your elected State officials………after September 1, prepare to spay and neuter EVERYTHING…………
If you’re so inclined, you can read the proposed Bill here…….
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB01845I.htm
Help Texas out and give the the animal rights groups a message that we will not cave in to their strategies to end dog breeding or ownership. Write the Texas legislators whether from the Lone Star State or not or Texas will become the Lone Dog State if we do not fight!!!