Thank you, Brian, for providing another side to this bill. I agree with your comments. I went to www.in.gov and searched the HB 1468 ('09) bill.
I read the first paragraph and briefly scrolled through the explanations. I thought it sounded fair for everyone (except abusers.) I have no sympathy for those that abuse, neglect, or participate in "puppy mills," and I sincerely hope that our Senators will approve this bill. That is my opinion. I have e-mailed Senator Lugar and Mishler asking them to support this bill.
Would it be accurate to say that a lot of us turn our heads when an animal is possibly being abused? I personally think we do. We don't want to offend the owner, right? If you are aware of it, who do you contact? I assume Kosciusko AWL. What do you do if you have a feeling something is wrong, but are not certain? This is a touchy situation. This bill will help by giving our community an opportunity to prosecute those that abuse the bill. Thus preventing more "puppy mills," etc.
It can be very difficult to know who is excess breeding and abusing animals. However, sometimes neglect is obvious. If you are buying an animal from a breeder, you have every right and an obligation to the animals to ask questions. You should be able to see records, the home or building they are living in (the animals) the feeding area, etc. Please don't hesitate to ask questions. We have a conscience for a reason. If something doesn't seem right, it probably isn't.
Purchasing an animal in a "puppy mill" doesn't stop the breeder. We need legal action. We can't ignore the awful fact that abuse, neglect and excess breeding is part of our community. This bill will help prevent and prosecute those that harm animals. If you don't harm animals, you have nothing to worry about with this bill.
Please take the time to read this bill and contact your senators. Your opinion counts. Please read the bill and vote on it.
