Dear Companion Pet Lovers ~
The next Ohio Dog Auction is scheduled to take place on September 25 and over 300 dogs are expected to be placed on the block. Now is the time to send a strong message to our state legislators that dog auctions are an embarrassment to Ohio and its humane minded citizens, and voters and taxpayers are committed to supporting a 2011 ballot initiative to ban these events from our community!
In the News!
If you haven't done so already, we invite you to read these latest articles highlighting our 2011 ballot initiative campaign:
05/27/10 - Philly Dawg - PAR 2: TV report exposes conditions at Ohio dog auction
05/27/10 - Philly Dawg - TV report exposes conditions at Ohio dog auction
05/25/10 - WHAS11 - I-Team Investigation: Inside the multi-million dollar business of dog auctions - Part 2
05/25/10 - WHAS 11 - I-Team Investigation: Inside the multi-million dollar business of dog auctions - Part 1
05/19/10 - Westlake/Bay Village Observer - Help end Ohio puppy mills: Ban Ohio Dog Auctions ballot initiative needs your help!
05/10/10 - The Times Reporter - Coalition against dog auctions finds ally
04/29/10 - The Lantern (Ohio State University) - Dog treatment a concern, but especially in Ohio
For a complete listing of media releases relating to our ballot initiative, please click here.
USDA Report!
An internal government report has confirmed dogs are dying and living in horrific conditions due to lax government enforcement of large kennels known as puppy mills. Investigators say the Department of Agriculture agency in charge of enforcing the Animal Welfare Act often ignores repeat violations, waives penalties and doesn't adequately document inhumane treatment of dogs.
The investigators visited 68 dog and dog brokers in eight states breeders (included 12 audit sites in Ohio, of which 58% were located in Holmes and Tuscarawas counties) that had been cited for at least one violation in the previous three years. On those visits, they found that first-time violators were rarely penalized, even for more serious violations, and repeat offenders were often let off the hook as well. The agency also gave some breeders a second chance to correct their actions even when they found animals dying or suffering, delaying confiscation of the animals.
To review the findings and a copy of the report, please click here.
August 21 Peaceful Rally against the Ohio Dog Auction!
GET READY TO SERVE AS A STRONG VOICE FOR THE DOGS!
Following our very successful peaceful rally in Millersburg on May 22, animal advocates are ready to stand united against the Ohio Dog Auction in Holmes County!
DATE:
Sat., August 21, 2010
TIME:
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
LOCATION:
Route 39 - Holmes County, OH (details of exact rally location will be mailed under separate cover)
Media coverage of the Ohio Dog Auctions and their relationship to puppy mills and pet homelessness has been extensive, and any of our protesting rescuers are committed to initiating humane reform at county pounds and shelters, and they are ready to assist the Coalition to Ban Ohio Dog Auctions in initiating positive change through their ballot campaign (Ohio Dog Auctions Act).
For details on the Rally (as they becomes confirmed), please click here.
Just 183 days remaining until December 1!
As of June 1, a total of 15,472 signatures have been collected of the minimum 120,700 signatures required. 296 volunteer Petition Circulators have raised awareness of the Ohio Dog Auctions Act by helping to collect signatures from 72 counties.
Voters across the state are communicating with their fellow citizens and starting to gather a goal of a minimum of 120,700 signatures by December 1, 2010 to put the proposed law before the Legislature in January 2011.
Volunteer petitioners are needed to make this initiative a reality in Ohio -we have until December 1, 2010! We need everyone's participation to make this vital effort a success!
· Campaign Kits! Our campaign kit to help gather signatures contains a media release, an informational sheet on the top questions (with answers) everyone needs to know on Ohio dog auctions and an informational sheet on best strategies in helping to raise awareness and gather signatures from registered voters.
To download these and other informational materials, including a copy of the Initiative Petition (Ohio Dog Auctions Act), please click here.
· Town Hall Meetings! Learn more about the Ohio Dog Auctions Act by participating in a Town Hall Meeting for your county!
For dates, times and locations (as they become confirmed), please click here.
· Signature Gathering! With over 120,700 signatures needed for the Initiative Petition to be placed on the 2011 ballot, much help is needed from volunteers!
For dates, times and locations of upcoming Signature Gatherings (as they become confirmed), please click here.
Ohio Voters against Puppy Mills and Dog Auctions!
If you haven't done so already, we invite you to join the over 2,130 voices who have become members of our Face Book group, "Ohio Voters against Puppy Mills and Dog Auctions." Membership is FREE, and our portal serves as a great vehicle in which to receive timely updates on issues and campaigns addressing Ohio dog auctions, puppy mills and the entities that support and keep them in business.
For more information on how you can become a member, please click here.
Sign the Care 2 Petition Letter to the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors!
Get motivated and get involved! We need many voices to serve as a strong voice against the Ohio Dog Auctions! Sign the Care 2 Petition Letter which will be presented to the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors following our USA Today article scheduled to be published in early June. Our goal is 3,000 signatures!
To sign the Care 2 Petition Letter, please click here.
Thanks everyone for continuing to serve as a strong voice for the animals! Don't forget to honor our fallen heroes on this Memorial Day!
County Total votes cast in 2006 governor's race 3% (the MINIMUM number of signatures we need to collect by 12/01/10) The total number of signatures we have collected as of 06/01/10 Percent of Goal
Adams 8,685 261 17 6.51%
Allen 36,229 1,087 3 0.28%
Ashland 19,355 581 25 4.30%
Ashtabula 33,865 1,016 7 0.69%
Athens 19,840 595 118 19.83%
Auglaize 16,907 507 3 0.59%
Belmont 23,996 720 0 0.00%
Brown 14,044 421 6 1.43%
Butler 115,895 3,477 159 4.57%
Carroll 11,152 335 5 1.49%
Champaign 14,264 428 4 0.93%
Clark 49,056 1,472 9 0.61%
Clermont 65,010 1,950 148 7.59%
Clinton 12,646 379 4 1.06%
Columbiana 36,223 1,087 3 0.28%
Coshocton 13,408 402 421 104.73%
Crawford 16,744 502 3 0.60%
Cuyahoga 454,100 13,623 5,889 43.23%
Darke 20,223 607 0 0.00%
Defiance 13,638 409 0 0.00%
Delaware 64,773 1,943 314 16.16%
Erie 30,106 903 15 1.66%
Fairfield 54,004 1,620 138 8.52%
Fayette 8,402 252 3 1.19%
Franklin 373,258 11,198 2,305 20.58%
Fulton 16,141 484 1 0.21%
Gallia 10,165 305 2 0.66%
Geauga 39,148 1,174 485 41.31%
Greene 59,113 1,773 6 0.34%
Guernsey 13,375 401 8 2.00%
Hamilton 287,496 8,625 535 6.20%
Hancock 25,675 770 253 32.86%
Hardin 9,723 292 16 5.48%
Harrison 6,095 183 0 0.00%
Henry 11,473 344 0 0.00%
Highland 13,158 395 2 0.51%
Hocking 9,860 296 337 113.85%
Holmes 8,108 243 15 6.17%
Huron 18,917 568 4 0.70%
Jackson 10,423 313 231 73.80%
Jefferson 26,133 784 0 0.00%
Knox 20,780 623 28 4.49%
Lake 88,006 2,640 537 20.34%
Lawrence 19,109 573 1 0.17%
Licking 59,051 1,772 114 6.43%
Logan 16,080 482 7 1.45%
Lorain 100,632 3,019 736 24.38%
Lucas 142,784 4,284 80 1.87%
Madison 13,441 403 47 11.66%
Mahoning 95,251 2,858 6 0.21%
Marion 21,691 651 27 4.15%
Medina 65,511 1,965 232 11.81%
Meigs 7,707 231 14 6.06%
Mercer 15,646 469 2 0.43%
Miami 37,054 1,112 26 2.34%
Monroe 6,066 182 2 1.10%
Montgomery 189,201 5,676 117 2.06%
Morgan 5,516 165 14 8.48%
Morrow 12,575 377 18 4.77%
Muskingum 28,719 862 19 2.20%
Noble 5,072 152 0 0.00%
Ottawa 17,207 516 0 0.00%
Paulding 7,479 224 0 0.00%
Perry 11,291 339 10 2.95%
Pickaway 17,960 539 173 32.10%
Pike 9,776 293 0 0.00%
Portage 54,970 1,649 77 4.67%
Preble 15,553 467 3 0.64%
Putnam 14,161 425 0 0.00%
Richland 45,799 1,374 129 9.39%
Ross 23,839 715 14 1.96%
Sandusky 22,736 682 1 0.15%
Scioto 26,369 791 0 0.00%
Seneca 20,051 602 1 0.17%
Shelby 17,029 511 0 0.00%
Stark 139,414 4,182 764 18.27%
Summit 197,747 5,932 380 6.41%
Trumbull 81,128 2,434 30 1.23%
Tuscarawas 31,585 948 126 13.29%
Union 16,877 506 49 9.68%
Van Wert 10,409 312 0 0.00%
Vinton 4,422 133 16 12.03%
Warren 68,091 2,043 39 1.91%
Washington 22,788 684 3 0.44%
Wayne 38,546 1,156 119 10.29%
Williams 13,033 391 0 0.00%
Wood 45,616 1,368 16 1.17%
Wyandot 8,160 245 1 0.41%
All Counties 4,022,754 120,682 15,472 12.82%
Mary O'Connor-Shaver
Cell: 614-271-8248
Columbus Top Dogs
http://www.ColumbusTopDogs.com
Friday, June 4, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
SAVE THIS DATE! May 22 Ohio Dog Auction (Farmerstown, OH) / Peaceful Rally
Dear Companion Pet Lovers ~
Yesterday's undercover investigation of Petland on Animal Planet serves as a strong example of why we must continue to unite as a humane community in raising awareness of Ohio dog auctions and their relationship to puppy mills and pet homelessness!
1. Sat., May 22, 2010 Ohio Dog Auction. Below is a summary of the 277 companions (138 males, 139 females, 1 possible add; includes a breeder from NC) expected to be placed on the auction block beginning this Saturday at approximately 10:00 AM:
PUPPIES DOGS FROM NC BREEDER OLDER DOGS ALL PUPPIES AND DOGS
BREED Males Females Males Female Males Females Males Females TOTAL
Bichon 0 4 0 4 4
Boston Terrier 1 4 1 4 5
Cairn Terrier 1 0 1 0 1
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 1 0 1 0 1
Chihuahua 3 1 2 5 5 6 11
Cocker Spaniel 1 4 1 4 5
Dachshund 0 1 17 4 0 5 17 10 27
French Bulldog 1 0 1 0 1
German Shorthaired Pointer 2 0 2 0 2
Havanese 1 0 0 1 1 1 2
Keeshond 0 1 0 1 1
Maltese 8 7 5 11 2 3 15 21 36
Miniature Dachshund 1 1 1 1 2
Miniature Pincher 0 1 0 1 1
Miniature Schnauzer 0 1 0 1 1
Mixed Breeds 0 5 6 3 0 4 6 12 18
Mountain Cur 1 1 1 1 2
Papillon 27 22 1 0 28 22 50
Pekingese 7 1 7 7 14 8 22
Pomeranian 6 1 1 0 7 1 8
Poodle (no classification) 2 2 2 2 4
Shih Tzu 7 4 1 6 8 10 18
Silky Terrier 0 2 0 2 2
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers 1 4 0 2 1 6 7
West Highland White 0 1 0 1 1
Yorkshire Terrier 10 2 11 0 4 18 25 20 45
TOTAL 45 27 73 47 20 65 138 139 277
You may be interested to know that a 2009 report issued by the USDA has confirmed Ohio ranks seventh among the top 10 states with the largest number of USDA Class A licensed commercial breeders:
1. MO - 1,370
2. OK - 498
3. IA - 322
4. AR - 308 (ranked 5th in 2008)
5. KS - 291 (ranked 4th in 2008)
6. PA - 202
7. OH - 161 (a 400% increase in the number of Class A licensed "commercial" breeders just six years ago!)
8. NE - 142
9. SD - 102 (ranked 10th in 2008)
10. TX - 91 (ranked 9th in 2008)
*To view copies of USDA Animal Welfare Inspection Reports, click here.
**To view a summary of state puppy mill laws, click here.
2. Peaceful Rally Against the May 22 Ohio Dog Auction. Get ready to serve as a strong voice for the dogs on May 22!
Following our very successful regionwide rally at the Licking County Pound in Heath, Ohio - attended by 250 humane advocates - we're ready to stand united against the Ohio Dog Auction in Holmes county!
DATE:
Sat., May 22, 2010
TIME:
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
LOCATION:
Holmes County Fairgrounds - 8381 State Route 39, Millersburg, OH 44654
Website: click here for directions
(Per the instructions of the Holmes County Sheriff's Department, we need to ensure we stand approximately six feet of the roadside and do not block any cars from entering the Fairgrounds.)
ATTIRE:
Since May 22 could bring rain and/or a dip in temperatures, be sure to dress accordingly!
SIGNS:
PLEASE BRING SIGNS! Signs with pictures of dogs from Ohio dog auctions (feel free to use any of the pictures on the www.BanOhioDogActions.com website) with the text, "Support the Ohio Dog Auctions Act" and "Ban Ohio Dog Auctions" enlarged to 13 X 17 on a home photo printer, or as large as you can get them without being blurry, are very effective for this peaceful rally.
MEDIA COVERAGE:
Media coverage of the Ohio Dog Auctions and their relationship to puppy mills and pet homelessness has been extensive, and as with the rally in Heath, many of our protesting rescuers are committed to initiating humane reform at county pounds and shelters. We are ready to assist the Coalition to Ban Ohio Dog Auctions in initiating positive change through their ballot campaign (Ohio Dog Auctions Act).
1. 03/31/10 - The Budget - Ban Ohio Dog Auction group met with opposition in Holmes county - > http://www.thebudgetnewspaper.com/Article.php?ArchiveID=1619
2. 04/06/10 - 19 Action News - Ohio Dog Auction Act - > http://www.woio.com/Global/story.asp?S=12263030
3. 04/16/10 - The Daily Record - Anti-auction dog group plans meeting, but can't find place to have it - > http://www.the-daily-record.com/news/article/4809831
4. 04/22/10 - The Times Reporter - SPECIAL REPORT: Dog auction ban sparks passion on both sides of issue. Pro: Coalition hoping to put an end to dog auctions, raffles - > http://www.timesreporter.com/newsnow/x932349674/SPECIAL-REPORT-Dog-auction-ban-sparks-passion-on-both-sides-of-issue
5. 04/22/10 - The Times Reporter - SPECIAL REPORT: Dog auction ban sparks passion on both sides of issue. Con: Breeders stepping forward to defend their practices - > http://www.timesreporter.com/newsnow/x57962980/Special-Report-Dog-auction-ban-sparks-passion-on-both-sides-of-issue
6. 04/28/10 - The Times Reporter - Coalition meeting cancelled - > http://www.timesreporter.com/topstories/x932359146/Coalition-meeting-cancelled
Please visit the Campaigns page of http://www.BanOhioDogAuctions.com for more information on this rally!
3. Ohio Voters Against Puppy Mills and Dog Auctions. If you haven't done so already, we invite you to join the over 2,000 voices who have become members of our FaceBook group, "Ohio Voters Against Puppy Mills and Dog Auctions." Membership is FREE, and our portal serves as a great vehicle in which to receive timely updates on issues and campaigns addressing Ohio dog auctions, puppy mills and the entities that support and keep them in business.
Yesterday's undercover investigation of Petland on Animal Planet serves as a strong example of why we must continue to unite as a humane community in raising awareness of Ohio dog auctions and their relationship to puppy mills and pet homelessness!
1. Sat., May 22, 2010 Ohio Dog Auction. Below is a summary of the 277 companions (138 males, 139 females, 1 possible add; includes a breeder from NC) expected to be placed on the auction block beginning this Saturday at approximately 10:00 AM:
PUPPIES DOGS FROM NC BREEDER OLDER DOGS ALL PUPPIES AND DOGS
BREED Males Females Males Female Males Females Males Females TOTAL
Bichon 0 4 0 4 4
Boston Terrier 1 4 1 4 5
Cairn Terrier 1 0 1 0 1
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 1 0 1 0 1
Chihuahua 3 1 2 5 5 6 11
Cocker Spaniel 1 4 1 4 5
Dachshund 0 1 17 4 0 5 17 10 27
French Bulldog 1 0 1 0 1
German Shorthaired Pointer 2 0 2 0 2
Havanese 1 0 0 1 1 1 2
Keeshond 0 1 0 1 1
Maltese 8 7 5 11 2 3 15 21 36
Miniature Dachshund 1 1 1 1 2
Miniature Pincher 0 1 0 1 1
Miniature Schnauzer 0 1 0 1 1
Mixed Breeds 0 5 6 3 0 4 6 12 18
Mountain Cur 1 1 1 1 2
Papillon 27 22 1 0 28 22 50
Pekingese 7 1 7 7 14 8 22
Pomeranian 6 1 1 0 7 1 8
Poodle (no classification) 2 2 2 2 4
Shih Tzu 7 4 1 6 8 10 18
Silky Terrier 0 2 0 2 2
Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers 1 4 0 2 1 6 7
West Highland White 0 1 0 1 1
Yorkshire Terrier 10 2 11 0 4 18 25 20 45
TOTAL 45 27 73 47 20 65 138 139 277
You may be interested to know that a 2009 report issued by the USDA has confirmed Ohio ranks seventh among the top 10 states with the largest number of USDA Class A licensed commercial breeders:
1. MO - 1,370
2. OK - 498
3. IA - 322
4. AR - 308 (ranked 5th in 2008)
5. KS - 291 (ranked 4th in 2008)
6. PA - 202
7. OH - 161 (a 400% increase in the number of Class A licensed "commercial" breeders just six years ago!)
8. NE - 142
9. SD - 102 (ranked 10th in 2008)
10. TX - 91 (ranked 9th in 2008)
*To view copies of USDA Animal Welfare Inspection Reports, click here.
**To view a summary of state puppy mill laws, click here.
2. Peaceful Rally Against the May 22 Ohio Dog Auction. Get ready to serve as a strong voice for the dogs on May 22!
Following our very successful regionwide rally at the Licking County Pound in Heath, Ohio - attended by 250 humane advocates - we're ready to stand united against the Ohio Dog Auction in Holmes county!
DATE:
Sat., May 22, 2010
TIME:
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
LOCATION:
Holmes County Fairgrounds - 8381 State Route 39, Millersburg, OH 44654
Website: click here for directions
(Per the instructions of the Holmes County Sheriff's Department, we need to ensure we stand approximately six feet of the roadside and do not block any cars from entering the Fairgrounds.)
ATTIRE:
Since May 22 could bring rain and/or a dip in temperatures, be sure to dress accordingly!
SIGNS:
PLEASE BRING SIGNS! Signs with pictures of dogs from Ohio dog auctions (feel free to use any of the pictures on the www.BanOhioDogActions.com website) with the text, "Support the Ohio Dog Auctions Act" and "Ban Ohio Dog Auctions" enlarged to 13 X 17 on a home photo printer, or as large as you can get them without being blurry, are very effective for this peaceful rally.
MEDIA COVERAGE:
Media coverage of the Ohio Dog Auctions and their relationship to puppy mills and pet homelessness has been extensive, and as with the rally in Heath, many of our protesting rescuers are committed to initiating humane reform at county pounds and shelters. We are ready to assist the Coalition to Ban Ohio Dog Auctions in initiating positive change through their ballot campaign (Ohio Dog Auctions Act).
1. 03/31/10 - The Budget - Ban Ohio Dog Auction group met with opposition in Holmes county - > http://www.thebudgetnewspaper.com/Article.php?ArchiveID=1619
2. 04/06/10 - 19 Action News - Ohio Dog Auction Act - > http://www.woio.com/Global/story.asp?S=12263030
3. 04/16/10 - The Daily Record - Anti-auction dog group plans meeting, but can't find place to have it - > http://www.the-daily-record.com/news/article/4809831
4. 04/22/10 - The Times Reporter - SPECIAL REPORT: Dog auction ban sparks passion on both sides of issue. Pro: Coalition hoping to put an end to dog auctions, raffles - > http://www.timesreporter.com/newsnow/x932349674/SPECIAL-REPORT-Dog-auction-ban-sparks-passion-on-both-sides-of-issue
5. 04/22/10 - The Times Reporter - SPECIAL REPORT: Dog auction ban sparks passion on both sides of issue. Con: Breeders stepping forward to defend their practices - > http://www.timesreporter.com/newsnow/x57962980/Special-Report-Dog-auction-ban-sparks-passion-on-both-sides-of-issue
6. 04/28/10 - The Times Reporter - Coalition meeting cancelled - > http://www.timesreporter.com/topstories/x932359146/Coalition-meeting-cancelled
Please visit the Campaigns page of http://www.BanOhioDogAuctions.com for more information on this rally!
3. Ohio Voters Against Puppy Mills and Dog Auctions. If you haven't done so already, we invite you to join the over 2,000 voices who have become members of our FaceBook group, "Ohio Voters Against Puppy Mills and Dog Auctions." Membership is FREE, and our portal serves as a great vehicle in which to receive timely updates on issues and campaigns addressing Ohio dog auctions, puppy mills and the entities that support and keep them in business.
Friday, April 30, 2010
RESERVE THIS DATE! May 22 - Peaceful Rally Against the Ohio Dog Auction! (Holmes County, OH)]
Our efforts to reschedule the Holmes County - Coalition Meeting on the Ohio Dog Auctions Act from its original date of March 27, has been met with a tremendous amount of resistance from business owners who have expressed concern of "backlash" from members of the Ohio Professional Dog Breeders Association and Ohio Association of Animal Owners, both groups who oppose the Ohio Dog Auctions Act.
Despite a growing level of support and publicity for our state-wide ballot initiative campaign from residents within Holmes and surrounding counties, many of these business owners have expressed concerns they will be threatened and harassed should they extend an opportunity for the Coalition to hold an informational meeting on their private property. As shared recently by one local resident:
"Holmes County has Domestic Violence & Sexual Abuse issues, ESPECIALLY on the Eastern side. Anyone that wants to dispute that, Get your head out of the sand and read your Daily Record. These are the same "people" (Eastern Holmes County) that have the majority of puppy mills. I am so glad this issue has been exposed."
Because of this, we are more committed than ever to raising awareness of the animal cruelty, consumer fraud and corruption associated with the Ohio Dog Auctions, and we will continue to aggressively pursue all avenues to ensure passage of the Ohio Dog Auctions Act!
Mary O'Connor-Shaver
Cell: 614-271-8248
http://www.BanOhioDogAuctions.com
LEGISLATIVE ALERTS: Please visit our Home page for pending legislation impacting the welfare of OH animals - http://www.columbustopdogs.com/
Despite a growing level of support and publicity for our state-wide ballot initiative campaign from residents within Holmes and surrounding counties, many of these business owners have expressed concerns they will be threatened and harassed should they extend an opportunity for the Coalition to hold an informational meeting on their private property. As shared recently by one local resident:
"Holmes County has Domestic Violence & Sexual Abuse issues, ESPECIALLY on the Eastern side. Anyone that wants to dispute that, Get your head out of the sand and read your Daily Record. These are the same "people" (Eastern Holmes County) that have the majority of puppy mills. I am so glad this issue has been exposed."
Because of this, we are more committed than ever to raising awareness of the animal cruelty, consumer fraud and corruption associated with the Ohio Dog Auctions, and we will continue to aggressively pursue all avenues to ensure passage of the Ohio Dog Auctions Act!
Mary O'Connor-Shaver
Cell: 614-271-8248
http://www.BanOhioDogAuctions.com
LEGISLATIVE ALERTS: Please visit our Home page for pending legislation impacting the welfare of OH animals - http://www.columbustopdogs.com/
Monday, April 26, 2010
The trouble with dog limits
Something for us all to think about, especially in these days of raids and
seizures. Permission to forward has been granted.
From: Walt Hutchens
Sent: Sunday, April 18, 2010 11:51 AM
To: VA-Pet-Law@yahoogroups.com
Pet limit laws are the most common reason for hiding a breeding
program. While they're usually passed with the intent to prevent
nuisances, their real effect is probably the reverse and they cause
other problems as well.
You can't have a real program with a three or four-pet limit, so when
such a law passes or a breeder accidentally moves his ten-dog program
to a place that has a limit, his reaction may be "Well, I'll just keep
most of them inside most of the time. They won't make any trouble,
they don't bark, so who will care?"
Part of hiding, however, is not allowing the general public to visit
his home to select a puppy and meet that puppy's parents. Instead the
breeder takes one or more puppies to some public area and the purchase
is done there. That itself is illegal in an increasing number of
places..
Then the breeder doesn't have other breeders in his home. Maybe he
meets them out front to go to shows together or maybe it's at the
local Wal-Mart parking lot.
Neighbors, of course, are not invited in.
And what's the result? The breeder, especially if he or she lives alone,
no longer has feedback on the conditions in his home and kennel area.
"I need to clean that up NOW" may become "after lunch," then
"when the weather is warmer," and ultimately "one of these days."
Hey, it doesn't bother ME and it doesn't hurt the animals, so what's the
big deal? A faint odor builds to a stench but the workings of our noses
are such that a constant smell is no longer noticed.
THEN -- one more thing happens: A plumber comes to fix a leaking pipe,
a puppy buyer gets mad, or the downwind neighbor CAN smell your place,
and animal control is called. Our laws were originally written to
protect animals but they are now often applied to cases of 'aggravated
bad housekeeping.' No animals are in immediate danger but you are not
meeting the standard of 'adequate shelter, adequately cleaned,' as
interpreted by the young ACO, who 'just loves animals.' The court won't
make any distinction: Your animals -- and your entire breeding program
-- are gone, along with some multiple of $10,000 of your money, your
reputation, and (often) the legal right to sell an animal, perhaps
even to own one, ever again.
Current enforcement of current animal laws rarely allows room for any
imperfection. Seriously bad housekeeping (with no animals harmed) that
probably should be handled with "I'm going to be back in a few days
and if this isn't cleaned up then I'm going to start writing
citations" may very well make you a former dog owner and a criminal,
and hand you a lifetime punishment.
If you are filing your federal taxes on the basis of your dogs being a
business, you are at even greater risk because in many states,
that declaration will trickle down to your county or city
and you may be required to get a business license. If you have a
business license (or it can be proven that you SHOULD have one) you
probably have to obey an even stricter set of laws with even less
protection for animal ownership.
For example, in Virginia, if animal control doesn't like the way you are
keeping your pets and you are a hobby breeder or a pet owner, they can
seize only dogs that are in immediate danger -- io such bad shape that they
might actually die soon. If you are running a pet-related business, they can
seize
ALL your dogs whether there's anything wrong with them or not.
All they have to do is say that the conditions were unsatisfactory.
That pet-limit law was intended to head off animal
nuisances, but the way it interacts with humans and the human
situation -- very few of us can afford to move to a remote area during
our working lifetimes -- tends to promote not just a nuisance, but a
human (and often, animal) tragedy.
While the problem is clear enough, I don't have a complete answer. One
partial answer is that hiding from the law is a very slippery slope
indeed and if you do it, you need to stay focused on exactly WHAT you
are hiding. Once it gets beyond 'too many dogs,' you and your dogs are
seriously at risk and in today's environment it's closer to 'when are
you going to get zapped,' than 'will you ...'
Take a look around: What is the WORST anyone could say or think about
conditions in your home/kennel right now? That IS what they'll say in
front of the judge, and he will believe THEM, not you.
Food for thought ...
Walt Hutchens
Timbreblue Whippets
www.timbreblue.com
Virginia
seizures. Permission to forward has been granted.
From: Walt Hutchens
Sent: Sunday, April 18, 2010 11:51 AM
To: VA-Pet-Law@yahoogroups.com
Pet limit laws are the most common reason for hiding a breeding
program. While they're usually passed with the intent to prevent
nuisances, their real effect is probably the reverse and they cause
other problems as well.
You can't have a real program with a three or four-pet limit, so when
such a law passes or a breeder accidentally moves his ten-dog program
to a place that has a limit, his reaction may be "Well, I'll just keep
most of them inside most of the time. They won't make any trouble,
they don't bark, so who will care?"
Part of hiding, however, is not allowing the general public to visit
his home to select a puppy and meet that puppy's parents. Instead the
breeder takes one or more puppies to some public area and the purchase
is done there. That itself is illegal in an increasing number of
places..
Then the breeder doesn't have other breeders in his home. Maybe he
meets them out front to go to shows together or maybe it's at the
local Wal-Mart parking lot.
Neighbors, of course, are not invited in.
And what's the result? The breeder, especially if he or she lives alone,
no longer has feedback on the conditions in his home and kennel area.
"I need to clean that up NOW" may become "after lunch," then
"when the weather is warmer," and ultimately "one of these days."
Hey, it doesn't bother ME and it doesn't hurt the animals, so what's the
big deal? A faint odor builds to a stench but the workings of our noses
are such that a constant smell is no longer noticed.
THEN -- one more thing happens: A plumber comes to fix a leaking pipe,
a puppy buyer gets mad, or the downwind neighbor CAN smell your place,
and animal control is called. Our laws were originally written to
protect animals but they are now often applied to cases of 'aggravated
bad housekeeping.' No animals are in immediate danger but you are not
meeting the standard of 'adequate shelter, adequately cleaned,' as
interpreted by the young ACO, who 'just loves animals.' The court won't
make any distinction: Your animals -- and your entire breeding program
-- are gone, along with some multiple of $10,000 of your money, your
reputation, and (often) the legal right to sell an animal, perhaps
even to own one, ever again.
Current enforcement of current animal laws rarely allows room for any
imperfection. Seriously bad housekeeping (with no animals harmed) that
probably should be handled with "I'm going to be back in a few days
and if this isn't cleaned up then I'm going to start writing
citations" may very well make you a former dog owner and a criminal,
and hand you a lifetime punishment.
If you are filing your federal taxes on the basis of your dogs being a
business, you are at even greater risk because in many states,
that declaration will trickle down to your county or city
and you may be required to get a business license. If you have a
business license (or it can be proven that you SHOULD have one) you
probably have to obey an even stricter set of laws with even less
protection for animal ownership.
For example, in Virginia, if animal control doesn't like the way you are
keeping your pets and you are a hobby breeder or a pet owner, they can
seize only dogs that are in immediate danger -- io such bad shape that they
might actually die soon. If you are running a pet-related business, they can
seize
ALL your dogs whether there's anything wrong with them or not.
All they have to do is say that the conditions were unsatisfactory.
That pet-limit law was intended to head off animal
nuisances, but the way it interacts with humans and the human
situation -- very few of us can afford to move to a remote area during
our working lifetimes -- tends to promote not just a nuisance, but a
human (and often, animal) tragedy.
While the problem is clear enough, I don't have a complete answer. One
partial answer is that hiding from the law is a very slippery slope
indeed and if you do it, you need to stay focused on exactly WHAT you
are hiding. Once it gets beyond 'too many dogs,' you and your dogs are
seriously at risk and in today's environment it's closer to 'when are
you going to get zapped,' than 'will you ...'
Take a look around: What is the WORST anyone could say or think about
conditions in your home/kennel right now? That IS what they'll say in
front of the judge, and he will believe THEM, not you.
Food for thought ...
Walt Hutchens
Timbreblue Whippets
www.timbreblue.com
Virginia
ACTION ALERT! We Need Your "NO" Vote in the The Daily Record Poll!
Dear Companion Pet Lovers ~
Your concerns regarding the Ohio dog auctions are being heard throughout Holmes County! Because of this, we are being flooded with letters and calls of support!
Please take a moment to vote NO in the latest poll being conducted by the newspaper, The Daily Record: "Should dog auctions be allowed to operate?"
A NO vote means you are AGAINST the Ohio dog auctions! The current poll reflects 88% of readers voting NO!
We need you to vote! Holmes county leaders are watching the results of this survey!
Here's the link in which to vote NO - > http://www.the-daily-record.com/news/index/1600
(You will need to scroll down this page until you see on the right hand side the box labled POLL. This box will be located under the Buehler's Fresh Foods advertsiement with the dancing pineapple).
Thanks so much for your support! Please crosspost this poll via Facebook, Twitter and email to all your family, friends and co-workers!
Mary O'Connor-Shaver
Cell: 614-271-8248
Columbus Top Dogs
http://www.ColumbusTopDogs.com
http://www.BanOhioDogAuctions.com
http://www.ThoughtsFurPaws.com
http://petnewsandviews.com
http://tejasanimalrefuge.ca/
http://www.LostPetUSA.net
Your concerns regarding the Ohio dog auctions are being heard throughout Holmes County! Because of this, we are being flooded with letters and calls of support!
Please take a moment to vote NO in the latest poll being conducted by the newspaper, The Daily Record: "Should dog auctions be allowed to operate?"
A NO vote means you are AGAINST the Ohio dog auctions! The current poll reflects 88% of readers voting NO!
We need you to vote! Holmes county leaders are watching the results of this survey!
Here's the link in which to vote NO - > http://www.the-daily-record.com/news/index/1600
(You will need to scroll down this page until you see on the right hand side the box labled POLL. This box will be located under the Buehler's Fresh Foods advertsiement with the dancing pineapple).
Thanks so much for your support! Please crosspost this poll via Facebook, Twitter and email to all your family, friends and co-workers!
Mary O'Connor-Shaver
Cell: 614-271-8248
Columbus Top Dogs
http://www.ColumbusTopDogs.com
http://www.BanOhioDogAuctions.com
http://www.ThoughtsFurPaws.com
http://petnewsandviews.com
http://tejasanimalrefuge.ca/
http://www.LostPetUSA.net
Friday, April 16, 2010
AKC Legislative Alert- Ask the Ohio House of Representatives to Repeal BSL!
Ask the Ohio House of Representatives to Repeal BSL!
http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=4095
[Thursday, April 15, 2010]
House Bill 79, sponsored by Representative Barbara Sears of Lucas County, removes the term "pit bull" from Ohio's statutory definition of dangerous dogs. All Ohio residents are encouraged to contact the Speaker of the House and their legislators to ask them to support this important measure and end 20 years of discrimination against responsible dog owners in Ohio.
Ohio is currently the only state to have enacted statewide breed-specific laws. The current law states that if a dog "belongs to a breed that is commonly known as a pit bull", then it is automatically considered vicious and dangerous. Owners of these dogs must submit reports to the board of health and county dog warden whenever there is a transfer of ownership.
Breed-specific language in state law has also enabled local Ohio municipalities to enact strict ordinances regarding ownership of "pit bulls" and has led to the ban and euthanasia of numerous dogs in communities throughout the state.
The American Kennel Club strongly supports House Bill 79 and recognizes that dangerous dogs should be defined by their deeds, not their breed. The AKC urges communities to establish a fair process by which specific dogs may be identified as "dangerous" based on stated, measurable actions, impose appropriate penalties on irresponsible owners, and establish a well-defined method for dealing with dogs proven to be dangerous.
The AKC strongly opposes any legislation that determines a dog to be "dangerous" based on its breed or type, and applauds the Ohio representatives who seek to remove this discriminatory language from state law. The AKC encourages Ohioans to contact their legislators and members of the House Agriculture committee and ask them to support this measure.
Read AKC talking points on breed-specific legislation.
Read AKC article "Why Breed-Specific Legislation Doesn't Work".
How You Can Help
· Contact the Ohio Speaker of the House, and respectfully ask that he allow the House of Representatives to consider House Bill 79. His contact information is as follows:
Speaker Armond Budish
77 S. High Street, 14th Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215-6111
Phone: (614) 466-5441
Fax: (614) 719-0008
E-mail: district08@ohr.state.oh.us
Contact your state legislators and ask them to support House Bill 79 and request that leadership allow them to vote on this bill. Visit the Ohio General Assembly's web site to find the names and contact information for your legislators.
For more information, contact AKC's Government Relations Department at (919) 816-3720, or e-mail doglaw@akc.org.
American Kennel Club Government Relations Department
8051 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 100
Raleigh, North Carolina 27617
Phone: (919) 816-3720
Fax: (919) 816-4275
http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=4095
[Thursday, April 15, 2010]
House Bill 79, sponsored by Representative Barbara Sears of Lucas County, removes the term "pit bull" from Ohio's statutory definition of dangerous dogs. All Ohio residents are encouraged to contact the Speaker of the House and their legislators to ask them to support this important measure and end 20 years of discrimination against responsible dog owners in Ohio.
Ohio is currently the only state to have enacted statewide breed-specific laws. The current law states that if a dog "belongs to a breed that is commonly known as a pit bull", then it is automatically considered vicious and dangerous. Owners of these dogs must submit reports to the board of health and county dog warden whenever there is a transfer of ownership.
Breed-specific language in state law has also enabled local Ohio municipalities to enact strict ordinances regarding ownership of "pit bulls" and has led to the ban and euthanasia of numerous dogs in communities throughout the state.
The American Kennel Club strongly supports House Bill 79 and recognizes that dangerous dogs should be defined by their deeds, not their breed. The AKC urges communities to establish a fair process by which specific dogs may be identified as "dangerous" based on stated, measurable actions, impose appropriate penalties on irresponsible owners, and establish a well-defined method for dealing with dogs proven to be dangerous.
The AKC strongly opposes any legislation that determines a dog to be "dangerous" based on its breed or type, and applauds the Ohio representatives who seek to remove this discriminatory language from state law. The AKC encourages Ohioans to contact their legislators and members of the House Agriculture committee and ask them to support this measure.
Read AKC talking points on breed-specific legislation.
Read AKC article "Why Breed-Specific Legislation Doesn't Work".
How You Can Help
· Contact the Ohio Speaker of the House, and respectfully ask that he allow the House of Representatives to consider House Bill 79. His contact information is as follows:
Speaker Armond Budish
77 S. High Street, 14th Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215-6111
Phone: (614) 466-5441
Fax: (614) 719-0008
E-mail: district08@ohr.state.oh.us
Contact your state legislators and ask them to support House Bill 79 and request that leadership allow them to vote on this bill. Visit the Ohio General Assembly's web site to find the names and contact information for your legislators.
For more information, contact AKC's Government Relations Department at (919) 816-3720, or e-mail doglaw@akc.org.
American Kennel Club Government Relations Department
8051 Arco Corporate Drive, Suite 100
Raleigh, North Carolina 27617
Phone: (919) 816-3720
Fax: (919) 816-4275
AKC Legislative Alert: ANOTHER MANDATORY SPAY/NEUTER ORDINANCE INTRODUCED IN NEW ORLEANS
To view a full copy of this alert, go to http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=4094.)
In a purported effort to address three recent well-publicized dog bite incidents in New Orleans, a new mandatory spay/neuter ordinance proposal has been introduced in the New Orleans City Council. It seeks to require all dogs be sterilized by six months of age or require their owners to purchase a costly annual intact dog permit. The American Kennel Club (AKC) opposes the ordinance, and encourages all responsible dog owners in New Orleans to contact the City Council and respectfully yet strongly urge them to vote down this proposal.
Councilwoman Cynthia Hedge-Morrell, sponsor of the current proposal, introduced a similar mandatory spay/neuter ordinance last year to address funding inadequacies of the Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (LaSPCA), which enforces the city's animal control laws. That proposal did not pass the Council.
If enacted, the new ordinance will impose many new unreasonable requirements on responsible dog owners in New Orleans, which include:
Requiring all dogs six months of age or older (with few exceptions) to be spayed or neutered or require owners to purchase an annual intact dog permit. Mandatory spay/neuter ordinances have not been effective anywhere they have been adopted. In fact, in many cases the euthanization rates in surrounding areas have declined faster than those areas with mandatory spay/neuter policies. Additionally, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) have both issued policy statements in the past year stating that mandatory spay/neuter policies are not effective. Enforcement of existing law, including leash and confinement laws, is a better alternative that does not discriminate against responsible, law-abiding dog owners.
Limiting female dogs from whelping more than one litter per year, or whelping a litter if the female is younger than 18-months of age. The AKC opposes any arbitrary limitation on the responsible breeding of purebred dogs, and believes health and reproduction decisions are best made by owners in consultation with their dogs' veterinarian.
Imposing significant fines for those who are found to be in violation of the ordinance, with the income from the fines to be used to further finance the LaSPCA's animal control efforts. The AKC believes that the cost of enforcement of the ordinance will be far greater than any revenues gained through fines or fees assessed. Further, New Orleans may experience a significant drop in licensing compliance rates and revenues similar to other cities where mandatory spay/neuter laws have been enacted. It could also lead owners to avoid proper veterinary care and vaccinations for their dogs in order to avoid detection.
The American Kennel Club opposes mandatory spay/neuter laws. Instead, we support reasonable and enforceable laws that protect the welfare and health of purebred dogs and do not restrict the rights of breeders and owners who take their responsibilities seriously. Additionally, we strongly support and actively promote a wide range of programs to educate the public about responsible breeding practices and the responsibilities of dog ownership.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
The Government Relations Department has received word that the ordinance is likely to be voted on at its next meeting on Thursday, April 22. The AKC strongly encourages all responsible dog breeders and owners in New Orleans to contact the current members of the New Orleans City Council. Respectfully let them know that you oppose the mandatory spay/neuter proposal, and urge them to vote against it.
Council President Arnie Fielkow (At-Large)
City Hall, Room 2W40
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1060
Fax: (504) 658-1068
afielkow@cityofno.com
Council Vice President Jacquelyn Brechtel Clarkson (At-Large)
City Hall, Room 2W50
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1070
Fax: (504) 658-1077
jbclarkson@cityofno.com
Councilwoman Shelley Midura (District A)
City Hall, Room 2W80
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1010
Fax: (504) 658-1016
smidura@cityofno.com
Councilwoman Stacy Head (District B)
City Hall, Room 2W10
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1020
Fax: (504) 658-1025
shead@cityofno.com
Councilman James Carter (District C)
City Hall, Room 2W70
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1030
Fax: (504) 658-1037
jcarter@cityofno.com
Councilwoman Cynthia Hedge-Morrell (District D) - ordinance sponsor
City Hall, Room 2W20
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1040
Fax: (504) 658-1048
chmorrell@cityofno.com
Councilwoman Cynthia Willard-Lewis (District E)
City Hall, Room 2W60
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1050
Fax: (504) 658-1058
cwlewis@cityofno.com
In a purported effort to address three recent well-publicized dog bite incidents in New Orleans, a new mandatory spay/neuter ordinance proposal has been introduced in the New Orleans City Council. It seeks to require all dogs be sterilized by six months of age or require their owners to purchase a costly annual intact dog permit. The American Kennel Club (AKC) opposes the ordinance, and encourages all responsible dog owners in New Orleans to contact the City Council and respectfully yet strongly urge them to vote down this proposal.
Councilwoman Cynthia Hedge-Morrell, sponsor of the current proposal, introduced a similar mandatory spay/neuter ordinance last year to address funding inadequacies of the Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (LaSPCA), which enforces the city's animal control laws. That proposal did not pass the Council.
If enacted, the new ordinance will impose many new unreasonable requirements on responsible dog owners in New Orleans, which include:
Requiring all dogs six months of age or older (with few exceptions) to be spayed or neutered or require owners to purchase an annual intact dog permit. Mandatory spay/neuter ordinances have not been effective anywhere they have been adopted. In fact, in many cases the euthanization rates in surrounding areas have declined faster than those areas with mandatory spay/neuter policies. Additionally, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) have both issued policy statements in the past year stating that mandatory spay/neuter policies are not effective. Enforcement of existing law, including leash and confinement laws, is a better alternative that does not discriminate against responsible, law-abiding dog owners.
Limiting female dogs from whelping more than one litter per year, or whelping a litter if the female is younger than 18-months of age. The AKC opposes any arbitrary limitation on the responsible breeding of purebred dogs, and believes health and reproduction decisions are best made by owners in consultation with their dogs' veterinarian.
Imposing significant fines for those who are found to be in violation of the ordinance, with the income from the fines to be used to further finance the LaSPCA's animal control efforts. The AKC believes that the cost of enforcement of the ordinance will be far greater than any revenues gained through fines or fees assessed. Further, New Orleans may experience a significant drop in licensing compliance rates and revenues similar to other cities where mandatory spay/neuter laws have been enacted. It could also lead owners to avoid proper veterinary care and vaccinations for their dogs in order to avoid detection.
The American Kennel Club opposes mandatory spay/neuter laws. Instead, we support reasonable and enforceable laws that protect the welfare and health of purebred dogs and do not restrict the rights of breeders and owners who take their responsibilities seriously. Additionally, we strongly support and actively promote a wide range of programs to educate the public about responsible breeding practices and the responsibilities of dog ownership.
WHAT YOU CAN DO:
The Government Relations Department has received word that the ordinance is likely to be voted on at its next meeting on Thursday, April 22. The AKC strongly encourages all responsible dog breeders and owners in New Orleans to contact the current members of the New Orleans City Council. Respectfully let them know that you oppose the mandatory spay/neuter proposal, and urge them to vote against it.
Council President Arnie Fielkow (At-Large)
City Hall, Room 2W40
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1060
Fax: (504) 658-1068
afielkow@cityofno.com
Council Vice President Jacquelyn Brechtel Clarkson (At-Large)
City Hall, Room 2W50
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1070
Fax: (504) 658-1077
jbclarkson@cityofno.com
Councilwoman Shelley Midura (District A)
City Hall, Room 2W80
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1010
Fax: (504) 658-1016
smidura@cityofno.com
Councilwoman Stacy Head (District B)
City Hall, Room 2W10
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1020
Fax: (504) 658-1025
shead@cityofno.com
Councilman James Carter (District C)
City Hall, Room 2W70
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1030
Fax: (504) 658-1037
jcarter@cityofno.com
Councilwoman Cynthia Hedge-Morrell (District D) - ordinance sponsor
City Hall, Room 2W20
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1040
Fax: (504) 658-1048
chmorrell@cityofno.com
Councilwoman Cynthia Willard-Lewis (District E)
City Hall, Room 2W60
1300 Perdido Street
New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone: (504) 658-1050
Fax: (504) 658-1058
cwlewis@cityofno.com
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