News
Maine—New Law May Not Help With Buxton Puppy Mill Seizure
September 07, 2007, 6:46PM MT
By Kelli Ohrtman
Dogs could be in limbo for a long time
Dogs could be in limbo for a long time
Click here to read the original story
Click here to read the previous story from August 25th
By Kelli Ohrtman: Best Friends Network
It’s been nearly three weeks since the State of Maine seized over 230 dogs from J’aime Kennel. Reports continue that local humane organizations, volunteers and even the Salvation Army have been turning out in full force to support the care of the animals—most who remain on the breeders’ property. “Without everyone pitching in, this wouldn’t be possible,” said Katie Lisnik, Maine state director for the Humane Society of the United States.
The arraignment for kennel owners John and Heidi Frasca is scheduled for late September, though it is possible that this can be postponed to a later date. Meanwhile, the burden of care lies with the agencies who have stepped up to support the state’s efforts.
Unfortunate timing?
Earlier this year, Maine legislators passed a bill that allows courts to order owners to post a security—money to pay for lawfully seized animals’ care. If the court orders security, it must be paid within ten days or the court can order the immediate forfeiture of the seized animals to the authority that seized them. Click here to read Sec. 43. 17 MRSA §1027
The bill, signed into effect this July, is designed to lighten the burden on Maine’s humane organizations; a burden that organizations across the country face when they take in animals that are held as evidence in long, drawn-out court cases. Shelters can be forced to house tens or hundreds of animals while the state and the owners battle in court, leaving the animals in limbo, and precious space is taken up that is needed for other animals. But whether or not the State of Maine can take advantage of the new law for the Buxton case remains to be seen. The animals were taken into custody in August, but the law won’t go into effect until September 21st.
Maine has strict laws that require breeders to be properly licensed with the state, to contribute $25 to the state’s Companion Animal Sterilization Fund for every unaltered animal sold, and to properly care for their breeding animals. In addition, they have a <a href="http://www.animallaw.info/statutes/stusmest3401_4162.htm#s4155 " target="_blank">puppy lemon law.</a> All these laws are designed to help curb pet overpopulation in the state and to protect both consumers and animals.
Dogs are doing well, but help is still needed
The Frascas face charges of operating their kennel without a license, for animal cruelty and for failing to provide an animal with medical attention. Since the animals were seized, vets have identified Sarcoptic Mange and Giardia in many of the dogs, as well as some very bad dental disease. Katie said, “The dogs are doing okay but they show the typical signs of neglect. Some are in bad shape as far as their skin, and a lot of them have really bad teeth.”
From all accounts, the breeders will fight to get their dogs back so they can continue their business.
How you can help
Veterinarians licensed in the state of Maine and experienced vet techs are needed. If you can help with the dogs’ medical care, especially dental cleaning and surgery, please contact Katie Lisnik at (301)529-0372
To volunteer or donate much-needed funds, contact the two local organizations who will care for the animals until their fate is decided in the courts:
The Animal Welfare Society
(207) 985-3244
www.animalwelfaresociety.org
Animal Refuge League of Greater Portland
Phone: (207) 854-9771
http://www.arlgp.org/
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To read more about the seizure on HSUS’ Website, Click here.
Read more about Maine’s new laws in the Portland Press Herald…