Good News on H 5092 Anti Dog Bill

Subject: MA 5092 - Anti-Dog Bill
Date: Thu, 23 Oct 2008 17:43:53 -0400

Between 150-200 dog fanciers turned out for the hearing on the draconian H 5092 bill that called for Mandatory spay/neuter, breed specific bans, intact dog permits, draconian nuisance provisions, and inappropriately mandated vaccinations. Those speaking against the bill included members of the National Animal Interest Alliance, the Mass. Federation of Dog Clubs, many different AKC dog clubs and dog training clubs around the state, pet owners, the Mass. Veterinary Medical Association, the Animal Rescue League, the MSPCA, the Waterfowlers Club, a speaker representing Americans with Disabilities and his guide dog and numerous pet owners. Revere City Councilman Anthony Zambuto also spoke in opposition. The hearing was hours long and not everyone was able to speak but the message was loud and clear. At the conclusion of the hearing, Chairman Pedone, author of the bill, entertained a motion to send the bill to study. This was seconded and quickly passed. This vote means the bill is dead for this session. Hopefully our strong showing will make clear that Massachusetts fanciers will not support these kinds of bills.

Thanks goes to the hundreds of Massachusetts residents who sent letters, called, emailed, or faxed. We heard from members of the committee that they got your message. In fact they got hundreds of your massages! One Representative joked that he was sure he had heard from all 300 members of one club. To NAIA and the AKC Legislative Department goes our thanks for their considerable help. Special thanks to Phil Guidry for his efforts on our behalf. Thanks to Dr. Tom Davies, AKC Director, for participating in a meeting with the sponsor. Thanks to those who ,missed worked to be there and to all of the people who came from every part of the state. When dog fanciers work together, we can educate our elected officials that we are indeed the experts.