The Puppy / Kitten Mill bill did not make it out of committee before the deadline, so this year, we won’t see puppy / kitten mill legislation. While this is certainly not the news we were hoping for, a lot of progress was made during this session. Even though H.F. 253 did not have enough votes to make it out of committee, it remains “laid on the table” (a fancy way of saying set aside for possible further discussion). That means next year, we can pick up where we left off.
In the meantime, let’s keep this issue alive! There are things you can do to help ensure the bill passes next year.
- Educate everyone! Bring this topic up in conversation with friends, family, co-workers, anyone you feel comfortable talking to. Many people are unaware inhumane breeders, and the horrible conditions cats and dogs find themselves in.
- Encourage adoption! If you know people interested in a cat or dog, be sure to remind them of the many homeless cats and dogs in need of a home. There are a number of rescue organizations (many specializing in certain breeds), and even the pickiest people can find their next pet through adoption.
- Contact your legislators! Everyone who’s in the legislature now, will be there in 2010 (and many will be up for re-election!). Remind them of the importance of this issue.
Visit animalfolksmn.org to learn more about the fate of H.F. 253 / S.F. 7 and to stay educated on puppy and kitten mills.
