Andrea Rosebrock 
Gov. Rendell has long been working on laws and legislation to crack down on the puppy mills in his state of Pennsylvania, long known as the ‘Puppy Mill Capital of the US.’ Come new month he will unveil legislation the will, if it passes, not only remove the ‘Puppy Mill Capital’ but will give Pennsylvania the strongest commercial breeding law in the country!
He has been dealing with major opposition from many groups since he began his crusade against the cruel puppy millers and unscrupulous and unethical breeders. I applaud his efforts because he really is trying to make a difference and I would like more states to make a real effort as such major reform instead of buckling down to lobbyists and money.
Gov. Rendell will unveil expansive legislation next month designed to crack down on bad kennel operators and improve housing conditions and health care for dogs living in the state’s 2,600 commercial kennels.
A draft copy of the proposals, which include changes to existing statutes and regulations, was provided to the Inquirer by an administration source.
Animal welfare advocates say among the most important proposals is one that would mandate the revocation of a license held by an owner convicted of animal cruelty within the last 10 years. Now the Secretary of Agriculture has the discretion to allow those convicted of animal abuse to continue to operate.
Another provision would require dogs receive annual veterinary care and bar kennel operators from giving their own rabies shots.
Experts in animal law say if the legislation is approved, Pennsylvania – long criticized as the “puppy mill Capital of the East” – would have the most stringent kennel laws in the nation.
The legislation attempts to address critics who voiced objections to a slew of new regulations advanced by Rendell last year as part of his effort to overhaul the Bureau of Dog Law and clean up kennels.
Administration officials say they have not abandoned the regulatory process, but rather are seeking legislation that more clearly defines the target of the proposals – commercial kennels – while strengthening both the state’s dog law and animal cruelty law. (Philly.com)
It would be wonderful if everyone, not just Pennsylvanians, could show their support for Gov. Rendell and his proposed reforms. Write or email him and let him know you are behind him. Then you can write and email your own legislators and ask them why they aren’t doing the same when it comes to puppy mills and commercial breeders in your state.
The only way we can make a difference is by having a voice and making our voice heard above those who are lining the pockets of our legislators. Money is not the only voice out there. Let them know that you care and it matters!!
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