Please Support Legislation to Regulate
Inhumane Breeding of Dogs and Cats in Minnesota
S.F. 7 / H.F. 253

Too often, Second Chance receives animals from irresponsible breeders from law enforcement, breeders, or other nonprofits’ rescue efforts. The animals arrive in varying conditions – so matted they can’t walk, extremely under weight, shy/fearful, never having had human contact, and a variety of other issues that we need to work with in order to help transition them into healthy animals ready for loving adoptive homes.

A bill was introduced in the Minnesota Legislature this year to license, inspect and regulate larger dog and cat breeders. The bill number in the Senate is S.F. 7, authored by Senator Don Betzold, and the bill number in the House is H.F. 253, authored by Representative Tom Tillberry.

This is a highly collaborative effort among many diverse animal groups and volunteers, and the bill has a long list of supporting organizations.

It is very important for you to contact your own State Senator and Representative now and ask them to support S.F. 7 (Senator) and H.F. 253 (Representative) and also educate them on what goes on in Minnesota puppy and kitten mills. If you don’t know who your legislator is, go to www.leg.state.mn.us/leg/districtfinder.asp

The Problem

Minnesota is among the top states for mass-produced puppies. Many dogs and cats live out their lives in small, overcrowded wire cages and are bred repeatedly. Their cages are often stacked one on top of the other, allowing feces and urine to fall onto the animals below. Animals may be sick from inadequate food, water and veterinary care, stress, fleas, worms, etc. Many have deformed paws, are severely matted, or are burned from sitting and standing in urine and feces. And, they are rarely, if at all, provided human socialization.

This bill addresses the problem.

While many breeders in Minnesota act responsibly, there are increasing reports of those who keep dogs and cats in deplorable conditions, and who are willing to make a profit at the expense of the animals’ health and wellbeing. These puppies and kittens are sold to the public and many are sick, diseased, and have genetic problems. There is no oversight and there are no state laws covering breeding facilities in Minnesota.

The Solution

S.F. 7/H.F. 253 gives the State of Minnesota the authority to assure that breeders covered under the bill comply with state anticruelty laws. S.F. 7 and H.F. 253 require licensing, inspections and regulation of breeding businesses in Minnesota.

If you would like to be added to a list of Minnesotans who want to take action on the bill, please email stopthesuffering@yahoo.com and ask to be added to the database. You will be alerted when to contact legislators to support the bills.

You can also learn more about the problem, sign a petition, and get updates at: www.animalfolksmn.org

You can print and distribute the attached flyer to educate people about the problem and the legislation. Click here (PDF )