PA HB 2525 has now passed the Senate! WOW! What great news, but the fight is nt over. I am trying to figure out where this bill will go next. From what I was told by the Humane Scoiety of Berks County was that this coulldalso mean they wanted it out of their lap and into Rules' or Appropriation's lap.

I have no clue what this means but I want to see it go directly to the Governor for his signature. If we can get through PA then things would look brighter for every state.

We can't give up now.

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09-22-08 -- PA Bills Could End Puppy Mills Abuse
By: Stephanie Abrams, CBS Channel 3 Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (CBS 3) - Two bills that could end the abuse at puppy mills in Pennsylvania passed the house and are now headed to the senate. Now the Pennsylvania Dog Law Advisory Board says it's facing opposition from an unlikely source. A group that claims to care very much for the welfare of animals: The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association.

CBS3's Stephanie Abrams went to Main Line Animal Rescue in Chester Springs to talk to the man who has spent the last 10 years saving dogs from puppy mills and has been working to put two new laws on the books to stop the torture.

Bill Smith showed us dogs without eyes, ears, feet, and even without barks. All of them rescued from puppy mills. He explained how wired flooring created a lot of inhumane conditions. He also pointed out that the effort to force the use of solid flooring is one of points being opposed by The PVMA.

The PVMA told CBS 3 that it opposes solid flooring because it is unsanitary by not allowing the feces and urine to drain. Smith says that's why kennel owners should be forced to clean the cages regularly. He says solid flooring is much better for the animal's paws, and prevents injuries from their legs falling through the holes and getting stuck. Solid flooring would also prevent splayed feet and branding from heated wires.

Another section of the bill being opposed requires the dogs get outdoor exercise. Smith says that is necessary for the welfare of the animals to see the light of day and not be trapped inside without any light all day. The PVMA says that would force kennel owners to put dogs outside even in horrendous weather conditions, and they suggest indoor runs would be sufficient.

In our discussion with the PVMA Executive Director Charlene Wandzilak told us, "We support the passage of the bill, but would like amendments to be made to pass the bill. As an association and profession we dedicate our lives to the welfare of animals, including these dogs, and it's a shame that this has become adversarial when at the end of the day we all want what is best for the dogs, and may just take a different approach to doing it."

Smith says their opposition in these last days before the Senators vote could delay the passage of the bill, and that he says would force the dogs to continue to be brutalized in dark and unsanitary living conditions.

Tom Hickey Senior, a member of the Pennsylvania Dog Law Advisory Board says Governor Rendell has supported the two bills for a long time. He says the governor has promised to sign them the minute the senate passes the bills. That would mean the bills would become law within 90 days.

They are circulating a petition right now to get the attention of your Senators. Visit savingpuppies.com for more information, or to help them fight for these bills. They also promise to post the name of all the Representatives who oppose the bill.

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Thanks for the update! It sounds like Channel is feeling safe! It's amazing how fast they figure it out, some sooner then others, of course. OMG....if I would sing in the car I'm afraid they would want to go back :-)....Thanks for all that you do, and I will sing your prasise when only GOD can hear me!
I will keep her in my prayers, and Thanks for all the prayers for Mr Happy......check him out at uTube under Mr Happy's New Lease on Life!
Thanks for Caring
Jon W Six

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I wonder if the big and small orgs could start a MASS campaign to develop a database and list the mills, then turn them into the IRS. The IRS has a whistleblower award program. If the puppymills' pocketbooks get slashed, they might think twice. SEE THE RULES HERE:
http://www.irs.gov/compliance/article/0,,id=180171,00.html

Wouldn't it be great to turn in the mills, get compensated for blowing the whistle, and put the money right into the campaign against the torturers?

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WE ARE NOT THERE YET. STILL NEED YOUR HELP.

The HB 2525 must be voted on within the next 6 days, therefore, EVERYONE in PA needs to contact their Senator by e-mail and by phone.

An ugly rumor is circulating in Harrisburg that enough people did not show up to demonstrate and they figure that not many people are interested in this bill.

I told my Senator that I would have been there if it were not for the fact that I have a job and the cost of gas. They said the understood. Do you believe them? I don't.

PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD. FILL UP THEIR E-MAIL BOXES AND CLOG UP THE PHONE LINES. TIME IS RUNNING OUT.

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Would love to have seen the look on the Amish's face when you guys started walking down the street!! I bet you ruined their day!

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Carol, your quote about candy is simply classic. It perfectly describes the exploitation which takes place.

I wish I had been able to attend. I've heard from some friends who were there and they left feeling empowered and energized - truly hopeful that some day this insanity will stop.

Awareness leads to education leads to action leads to change.

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Cute k-9 mascot :)

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Woo hoo! Excellent news about Chanel, Carol. Yet another starfish saved...another happy beginning, thanks to the power of people working together.

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09-25-08 -- Our Take on the Senate Amendments to HB-2525
By: North Penn Puppy Mill Watch

It is terribly disappointing that our state Senate, in an attempt to avoid making decisions for which they would be held accountable, has decided instead to create a "Canine Health Board" to do their work for them and thereby avoid the overwhelming sentiment and demand of their constituents to immediately protect dogs trapped in Pennsylvania's commercial breeding kennels.

The amendments now tacked onto House Bill 2525 strip the majority of provisions that will benefit dogs in commercial breeding kennels by offering a waiver to those kennel operators who have a "clean inspection record" for three years. Kennel operators falling into this category will not have to implement any of the new provisions that would improve the health and welfare standards for the dogs.

In light of the kennel inspection reports for those kennels raided over the summer and the kennel that shot its 80 breeder dogs, some of which had "clean inspection records" this exemption is not only inappropriate but detrimental to the lives of tens of thousands of dogs trapped in the mills.

Furthermore, that the implementation of this legislation is to be delayed by more than one year, should it pass, only ensures the probability that hundreds of dogs will once again freeze to death this coming winter and/or expire from heat exhaustion over the course of next summer. Thanks to the Senate, there will be no immediate relief for dogs who have already been suffering for years and this is shameful.

In 2007 the PA Deptment of Agriculture, via the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, licensed approximately 1,667 commercial kennels. The original and more stringent portions of House Bill 2525 were created to ensure the health and welfare of canines kept in breeding facilities housing more than 60 dogs. Inasmuch as HB-2525 would actually affect only 875 kennels, it is clear that the Senate is catering to a very small special interest group, instead of its constituents, and allowing them to dictate how dogs will be kept in this Commonwealth.

Our House of Representatives spoke loudly and clearly: PASS THIS LEGISLATION WITHOUT ADMENDMENT but, by way of unfriendly amendments, the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee has not only damaged this legislation but reinstated amendments that were opposed and soundly defeated in the House.

While advocates clearly do not have the ability to stop this now amended legislation, it should be noted for the record that we oppose these changes and would sincerely hope that every state senator who cares about dogs, and also values the opinions of her or his constituents, will work to undo the damage done by the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee when this bill comes for a vote on the Senate floor.

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I have two puppy mill breeders in my dog pack. They are so wonderful and truly velcro dogs.

Marge the MIN PIN quacks from shredded vocal cords, and loves to lay in the sunny yard. Agatha Christie the Olde English Mastiff, can't stand to be out of my sight and never gets enough to eat [she was 80 Lbs+ when she got to rescue]. My other two death row dogs are puppy mill Pekingese from animal control shelters and they know they are at K9 Club Med. Round the list out with a grand dog yellow lab that my son dropped off and a Peke from a back yard breeder 10 Years ago and I have a nice six pack.

I enjoy the cast off dogs, they blossom with very little effort. Nina in Florida

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Regarding PUPS, the national anti-puppy mill bill

Be aware that AKC collects registration dollars from many of these puppy mill farmers.

The AKC is in the puppy mill business, and would be bankrupt without the puppy mill dollars.

Many AKC breeders will lobby AGAINST any national puppy mill bill, and many legislators do not know that the AKC is in the puppy mill business.

AKC breeders have been working with the puppy farmers' lobbying groups to oppose state AND national legislation.

Legislators need to be educated about all these lobbying groups!

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I have 2 puppy mills rescues. 1 is a 4 yr old mother "breeder" dog, and the other her 12+ yr old father. The 4 yr old had no contact with humans, lived in a crate, and popped out babies for 4 yrs...that's it. Now at my house she has the freedom to run, love, and be a dog! She is still working on trust issues with strangers, and loud noises, but she has come along way in the 5 months I have had her. Her father was so neglected medically that his past will ultimately be the reason for his death. Both dogs are both wonderful dogs, and I just wish I was able to have gotten both of them before they were put thru all the things they went thru in the past...but we are moving forward and leaving the past behind...WAY behind!!!!

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Here's the man to contact now in Pennsylvania as well as other Senators- Senator Brubaker

http://www.pafarmnews.com/Articles/2008/080920_HB2525_Brubaker.htm

The PA puppy mill bills will be handed to him next as chairman of Senate Agricultural & Rural Affairs Committee.

I am a little concerned about his tone in talking about this dirty industry, but I hope this Senator will decide not to let the puppy mills humiliate Pennsylvania anymore, and will pass these bills without weakening them w/ amendments for the corrupt millers.

I hope he is a wise man, and will not let himself get manipulated by these devious breeders who always have a ready supply of lies and propaganda hiding the truth.

Here is his contact info- http://senatorbrubaker.com/

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Any new info on the chocolate lab that was rescued? The look on the dog's face has been haunting me and I need to know how the dog is doing.

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The images of the people passionate about getting pets out of puppy mills with the Lancaster backdrop says it all! On the heels of the Zimmerman's brutal act, PMAD helps shed light on the shrouded secrecy of the Amish. There was no need for that act of violence and with the help of the public their days of extreme nuttiness are over! The only "simple" thing about them are their spiteful, caveman ways.

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Bill 2525 is not perfect but a start. It needs to get passed during this Senate session and signed by Govenor Rendell immediately. He has stated that it will go into effect within 90 days.

If we save only 1 puppy that is a step forward. To at least get something in place before the winter is a beginning.

This law would stop the useless killing of dogs, it would assure heat and water during the harsh winter months. It will wake up this Nation and say that PA is taking a step forward and not supporting the usual close your eyes and pretend it does not exist.

Signing petitions is great but we need to call our Senators and send e-mails asking our Senator's to support this bill. They need to hear those voices of all of us to not push this off until next year.

E-mail those in the Rules Committee and then those in Appropriation and finally those in the full Senate. Make your voices LOUD and clear.

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I also have several resuces. Bitsy is a 5 lb Chi from a breeder. It has taken her almost 2 years to finally begin to give "puppy kisses" let me rub her belly, and there are even signs of her wanting to "play". She use to only sleep sitting up but is now laying down to stretch out. It does take time but it is worth it. She is my velcro.

Moo was a 1 year old pug who was being used as a breeder. The "owner" said she was too ugly to sell so she could breed. She was blind and had a bulging eye. To me she was beautiful! She had a litter the day after being pulled out of there and would have died if someone had not been with her. Thank you Liz. She did not even know had to take care of her pups and had to be taught. She passed on last spring and I miss her every day.

Whimbly came from New Orleans during Katrina. He was on death row and a group pulled him off because he was so cute. He is a true delight.

Funny how these are all "mommy" dogs. I could not love it more, especially when it bugs Dad!

PA is trying to clean up its reputation and save these dogs from another miserable day of life.

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I also want to know about that poor lab. I know deep inside is a wonderful, loveable dog, she just needs alot of love & attention and hopefully she will experience that soon. I can't wait until next year because I'm making a plan to be at this event, only about 4-5 hour car ride as I live in western pa, but it will be so worth it. wish more dogs would have been surrendered. Just want to know how all you animal rescuers do it without wanting to literally kill these people that continue to inflict this cruelty day in and day out. I don't think I could do it, although I want to someday, it's a dream of mine.

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Thanks so much for all that EVERYONE does to help God's critters out!!!!! Let this be nationwide!! Wisconsin next puppy mill auction is September 24, 2008 in Thorp, WI there will be protestors there. THIS HAS TO STOP. There will be a boycott at Petland in Racine, WI this Saturday because they buy from Puppy Mills. MY HEARTS GO OUT!
Brando, 2x blastomycosis survivor says, WOOF WOOF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
www.nowisconsinpuppymills.com THIS IS ABSURD!!!!!

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I have just received a copy of the statment Senator Follmer made before the PA Agricultural Committee. Basically he is dragging his feet and trying to stall the passage of this much needed bill.

Anyone living in PA, PLEASE contact your Senator NOW and ask them to support HB2525.

It is too important to let it go on another day.

The nation is watching us.

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Thank you for the great update on Chanel, my heart hurts for all those still in cages.. PLEASE everyone do what ever the can do STOP puppy mills
God Speed to Chanel and God Bless all those still in those horrible places.
Thank you to all that still fight the good fight!!!
Julie

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Oh Chanel, I saw you at Puppy Mill Awareness Day and you looked so scared, so unsure. You are safe and loved by hundreds. I'm so glad you are safe, sound and learning about love. I've been so worried about you!

To see my photos from Puppy Mill Awareness Day just go to this address:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/starycat/sets/72157607399255959/

Thank you, Lana for the update! You're the best!

Here are photos from the rally at the Capital on 9-16-08

http://www.flickr.com/photos/starycat/sets/72157607337927288/

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My heart goes out to the Cocolate Lab And I Thank God that she was surrendered. My prayers are with her future and please keep us posted. I'm sure it was discouraging getting only one dog turned over, but I'm in hopes that this could start a new program "No Questions Asked" and give millers a chance to surrender dogs across the country. Just an idea that I would be happy to support! Thanks for Caring....Jon W Six

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I will check on how the lab is doing. She was the face of "every mill dog". Covered in feces, shaking turning her head away. It actually hurt to look at her and see her fear. Surrounded by the very people who wanted nothing more than to help her, she feared for her life. I promise to get everyone updates on our Little Awareness day miracle. At least she made it out alive.
Thank you for all your support.

Carol Araneo-Mayer

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Good job everyone! God bless that beautiful Chocolate Lab - may He help her to realize she's safe and will now be able to enjoy the life she should have had all along.

p.s. - PAWSOME quote!

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Update on Chanel, the Chocolate Lab rescued at AD.

As promised, this just came in. Brought happy tears to my eyes.
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Chanel, SHGRR # 174: We had a long ride back to NJ. I was on the
phone and talking - she was listening and watching. I could see her
through the rear view mirror. When it was just the two of us I sang
with the radio. I did not want her to feel "alone". A wonderful
thing happened about the time I was entering NJ, my phone rang and it
was our Veterinarian, Laura Taylor asking some questions about our
choc lab. The conversation ended with Laura saying she would foster
our new girl Now, how great is that !!!!! I chose to drive home
first, leave our girl in the car (she had water) in the garage with
windows open and feed and medicate my goldens. Trust me, the doling
out of food, fresh water, pills and insulin was done in record
breaking time. Left my back diningrm door open so they could go io
to the deck for some outside play and jumped back in the car arriving
at Laura's in 20 minutes, it was 8:30.

The driveway was dark, our girl was plastered at the back of the
crate. Interior car lights were on. I could not pull the crate
closer because of the weight, so there I was, all of me, climbing
into the back of the car into the crate. What a picture !!!!!!! I
got her leash on and a slip line for safety. A couple of gentle tugs
and out she popped. I fully expected her to bolt but she
didn't. She actually walked well, peed along the way, walked up the
2 steps. She jumped when the door opened. She was happy to meet
Ruby, Laura's yellow lab and one of the cats. She chose to crate
herself which was fine. Laura, who is small and petite, sat at the
entrance of the crate with the slip line in her hand, talking real
low and petting our girls face. Eventually our girl came to the
front of the crate, Laura checked her for a micro chip, assessed the
scars and the leg sores. Fed her (which she consumed in a brief
period of time). Then Laura invited her out of the crate, she came
out and was "frozen" in place. The cat made himself at home, walking
back and forth, teasing - no response. Laura checked her teets, no
milk - so no recent pups and she is not pregnant. By 10pm I left for
home knowing that our girl was safe, in a great home with children
and other pets and getting any and all medical care she
needed. Laura felt that most of the scars were due to her living
quarters rather than a dog fight(s). A slight skin infection for
which she is now on antibiotics. Her feet and lower leg skin
excoriated probably from lying on cement. There was no edema.

Last night Laura called, our girl had a name. Laura and the children
had decided on Chanel (for Coco Chanel). She had not had an accident
in her crate, she came out of the crate without being tugged. She
was eating VERY well. Going out and peeing and pooping. Chanel was
more relaxed and interested in her surroundings. Laid on the deck as
Laura sat in a chair - not nervous. Everything is great. Today she
will be HW tested and have a micro chipped placed. By weeks end she
will start on her vaccines. Tomorrow is bath day.

Chanel will see just how good life is. We just have to give her the
time. Remember to send tele # and home address for newsletter.

Lana
Shore Hearts Golden Retriever Rescue

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