Zazzle.com: Promoting The Killing of Dog Breeders

Zazzle.com, the popular website that allows anyone to create and sell products such as t-shirts, mugs, bumperstickers, etc, has crossed the line, and therefore a boycott is in order!

A user of that website by the name of "romeolover410" has created nothing short of a message condoning the murdering of dog breeders.  While taking a look at some other products, one is also available that says, "Save a Pitbull..Euthanize A Breeder"

According to Zazzle.com's user agreement , the products created for sale by "romeolover410" using the slogan, "Adopt A Dog Euthanize A Breeder", is in clear violation of their user agreement!

User Conduct


In using this Site, you agree to not:

upload, download, post, email or otherwise transmit any materials including but not limited to text, data, photos, graphics, stitch files, or any of these elements in combination as a design for products available on this Site or otherwise ("Content") that are unlawful, harmful, threatening, abusive, vulgar, harassing, defamatory, obscene, pornographic, profane, indecent, inflammatory, libelous, tortious, hateful, racially, ethnically, socially, politically, legally, morally, religiously objectionable or otherwise objectionable, or invasive of another's rights including but not limited to rights of celebrity, privacy and intellectual property.

What can we do??

Visit the product page (if you can stomach it) and leave a comment; there are several there already.

More importantly, contact Zazzle.com directly and let them know that this "slogan" is promoting the killing of human beings and you won't do business with any company that allows this type of message to be sold.

Of course, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that "romeolover 410" is part of the animal rights lunatic fringe....any doubts now how the ARs feel about dog breeders?  They have no qualms about seeing human beings KILLED. 

Don't forget "euthanize" is just the "cleaned-up" way of saying KILL.

Breeder Bashing: A National Pasttime

Breeder-bashing isn't a new concept.  However, with our rights to breed dogs under constant attack from the animal rights terrorists, led by none other than The Humane Society of The United States (which is in no way, shape or form a "real humane society", but rather an extreme animal rights organization), one would think that dog breeders could find some common ground, stick together, and dispense with the superiority complexes.  No such luck.

One would think that since dog breeding is being compared to drug-dealing, that we could learn to play nice.  Visit one of those damnable online "dog forums" sometime and you will see what I mean.  We seem to forget (or do we?), that many members of the pet buying public go to these message boards to 'learn'.  What are we teaching them?  Just for fun visit one of your breed's message boards.  Or better yet, Google your kennel name, or your dogs' names.  You may be shocked at what "fellow breed enthusiasts" have to say.

"I would NEVER do that, and any breeder that DOES is......"

Fill in the blank; "back-yard breeder" (or "BYB"), "puppymill" (a phrase coined by the animal rights terrorists to divide and conquer us...it's working, by the way), or a modification, such as "showmiller".

Simply put, if WE don't like a certain breeder, or said certain breeder does not DO what WE do, or WOULD DO, then they are less than human and should be banished to the deepest pits of hell.  Nothing a dog breeder does is EVER good enough; everyone that owns dogs, or breeds, has their own "ideas" of "what a breeder should do or be".  No topic is off limits, every action --or inaction-- is subject to being bashed by those that need to feel superior by being self-proclaimed experts while hiding behind a computer keyboard.

Newsflash:  such "superior" beings are NOT helping when it comes to winning the war for our rights to breed and even OWN dogs.  My advice, if one needs help improving self-esteem, read one of those self-help books, or see a shrink.

One topic pounced upon by breeder-bashers is "NO one should own more than--insert number here- dogs!"  Really?  Just who are you exactly to dictate to anyone how many dogs a person should have the right to own?  Of course, this same sentiment does not apply to rescues or fosters because they are "doing good", any other poor schmuck that chooses to have 10, 5, 20 dogs are "evil greedy breeders that should be sent to the deepest pits of hell" .

Another topic:  "Anyone who breeds MORE THAN ---fill-in the blank time again---litters per year is a ....."  Interesting.  So, according to the "experts" no one can be a good breeder if they breed 2,3, or whatever-arbitrary-number of litters per year?  As long as the puppies they produce are healthy, are good specimens of their chosen breed (which is subjective to each individual), and they sell them to good homes, what business is it of ours?  Can you say, "NUNYA".

And then there is the ever popular, "if a breeder is testing at such a young age, they must have something to be afraid of!"  Really???  Isn't the entire point of health testing what we produce (and their parents) is to make sure that we are doing everything we can to make sure those animals are as healthy as possible and to make sure that our puppy buyers know what they can/can't expect?  This seems to be a bashing point done by those that don't do ---for example---eye CERFS on young puppies in a breed where CERFing at a young age isn't the "norm". 

We're damned if we do and damned if we don't. 

Remember that saying about glass houses and stones.....

Before all you "breeding experts" run off to educate the public on what a "good" breeder is, don't do the rest of us any favors by preaching what your "beliefs" are as being "my way or it's wrong". 

We dog breeders seem to forget that WE created the anti-breeder sentiment in this country by bashing those that we didn't agree with or by bashing those that did things differently than us.  And look where we are now....the animal rights terrorists and the bunny-hugger followers have taken our "ideas" and are introducing them as legislation faster than a dandelion growing in summertime.  Yes, WE DID THIS TO OURSELVES. 

We created the "breeders are bad" sentiment by expecting all breeders to do as WE DO, or else they are "bad" if they do not.  We have "taught" the public this; we have "created" the monster. 

I've said it before and I'll say it again, be careful of throwing those stones; you never know where they will land.  Or how they will come back to  haunt you.

Let's Highjack the HSUS Bus!

If we are to survive, we must hijack the Humane Society of the United States' bus!

What do I mean by that?  Simple.  Have you googled the phrase "puppymill" lately?  How about "finding a good dog breeder", or "spay and neuter"?  The animal rights movement dominates Google; and let me tell you, my friends, if ya' ain't on Google, YOU DON'T EXIST!  Google is where John Q Public (and those uneducated legislators) goes to "get educated" these days.  If all the public reads is the rhetoric put out there by Wayne and company, then guess what?  That's what they will believe and take as the gospel truth.

Yes, My Friends, You Can Help Save Our Animals!

The solution is so, so simple, and the very best part is.......WE CAN DO IT FOR FREE.  Yes, I said "FREE!".  Blogging.  Blogging is FREE and super simple.  If you can type an email, or write a document using Wordpad, or Word, you can blog.

The fact of the matter is that Google (and their little web-crawling robots) love, love, love BLOGS!  Blogs get indexed (listed in Google's massive index of sites) fairly quickly. 

I belong to many legislation-type email lists (Yahoo, Google, etc), and those have a purpose to an extent.  I've learned a great deal and met many wonderful people, but the problem is that those lists are "invisible" to the public.  They can't read what we type; they don't know "what we know", ya' know?!

So the next time you write a really, really great email talking about breeders, or the animal rights movement, or the current state under attack by HSUS--copy and paste that into a blog! (Removing any identifying information, of course; be smart!)

Where? When? HOW?

Probably the two best known platforms for blogs are Google (known as "Blogger" or "Blogspot") and Wordpress.  Both are FREE, but you do have the option of paying and getting some snazzier stuff. 

But for our intent (which is to get the truth into the hands of the public), the free versions work just fine.

You can make your blog posts as long as you want, or as short; you can blog every day, twice a day (if you do this, best to keep it short and simple), once a week....my point is, is that in the time it takes to write or respond to another email on a dead-end email list, you can publish that same great information TO MILLIONS of people searching terms like the ones I described above. 

Don't feel confident, or maybe you're techno-phobic?  Find a trusted friend to set a blog up for you; then simply send them the content you want published.

Imagine All The People.....

Imagine the sheer magnitude our side could reach if we had hundreds of blogs writing about THE TRUTH concerning dog breeders, the dire consequences of early spay/neuter, the myth of "overpopulation", the slimy goings-on within the animal rights movement, etc...

Imagine....something SO SIMPLE.  Imagine....turning the tide.  FOR FREE!  (not for the $19/month!)  We can save our animals and our relationships with them, but we have got to speak out. 

And we must "speak" where we will be heard:  the internet, or more importantly, "Google".

Kentucky: HSUS Introduces Unconstitutional Forfeiture Bond Bill

On February 26, HSUS (Humane Society of the United States) --no doubt aided by their KY state director, Pam Rogers--introduced the animal "forfeiture/seizure bond" bill:  formally known as Kentucky HB 517.


A Little History Lesson Is In Order Here...

For those readers that are unaware, Pam Rogers was a author of the infamous Louisville, KY, animal control ordinance.  The very ordinance that the Louisville Kennel Club (and various other individuals) filed a federal lawsuit against, and were successful in several key areas.  For the complete ruling issued by Judge Charles R. Simpson (U.S. District Court), please click here.

One of the unconstitutional findings (relative to the "seizure/forfeiture bond") by the Honorable Judge Simpson was that:

Section 91.101 of the Louisville/Jefferson County Metro Government code of Ordinances is declared unconstitutional insofar as it threatens to deprive pet owners of their property rights without a finding of guilt...Metro is hereby enjoined from enforcing 91.101 in the manner just described.

Forfeiture/Seizure Bonds Are Unconstitutional

You would think that HSUS got the message from Judge Simpson's ruling, but apparently not. (Too much tofu and not enough meat protein, perhaps?)

This bill is a cleverly worded state version of that portion of the Louisville/Jefferson County ordinance.  It is still just as bad, and still seeks to deprive owners of their Constitutional Due Process Rights.  That is, no state (or person or anyone) can deprive you of your property without an actual finding of GUILT.

This bill seeks to give "ownership" of animals to third parties PRIOR to a finding of guilt of the accused.  It also seeks to force those accused in crimes relating to animal cruelty to post a bond.   It does not matter whether or not someone can afford to post this type of bond, the bottom line is that no one has the right to give "ownership" of YOUR PROPERTY to someone else!

What about after the trial, and a person is found innocent?  This bill does not make it clear that the animals will be returned to the owner; nor does it spell out--with certainty-- that any monies paid will be returned to the rightful owner.  It is part of our American judicial system that society bears the brunt (costs) associated with finding a person guilty or innocent.  Cases involving those accused with crimes against animals should be treated no differently. 

The very concept of a "forfeiture" or "seizure" bond greatly undermines the idea that a person is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law; depriving someone (or attempting to deprive someone) of their personal property by their ability (or inability) to cough up huge sums of cash flat-out crushes the 14th Amendment.

Our judicial system is not perfect; however, we are afforded certain protections under the U.S. Constitution.  More and more, the animal rights industry (namely the Humane Society of the United States) would have us to believe that animal owners are somehow different; that we are not entitled to those same protections against warrantless searches and seizures, the right to due process, the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty, the right to a fair and speedy trial, etc.

Kentucky HB 517 Seeks to Grant Police Powers to HSUS "Agents"

If that statement doesn't scare the crap out of you, then I don't know what will.

Those of us that closely montior the anti-animal owner/breeder legislative climate across the U.S. have seen one too many cases of the HSUS using their phony badges and phony legal "authority" to "raid" breeders/animal owners.

In case any of you missed the memo, HSUS is NOT a governmental authority on anything; they have no police powers.  Their "agents" are nothing more than individuals playing dress-up; much like we all did as kids.  Except when HSUS agents play cops and robbers, the result is dead animals and individuals deprived of their due process rights!

Recently, a South Dakota dog breeder was "raided" illegally (judge threw the search warrant out) by a local "rescue" group, aided by HSUS agents playing dress-up.  In addition to the judge throwing out the warrant, and this fiasco costing untold thousands of dollars to the community---dogs are dead as a result. 

And, who could forget the "S.W.A.T Team style" raid (complete with Blackhawk helicopters!) on Louisiana "pit bull" breeder, Floyd Boudreaux?  Another case of all dogs dead, due process rights thrown out the window, and THOUSANDS of dollars wasted.  The outcome?  The judge threw out the case.

But, hey, it's all good to HSUS, right?  These highly publicized cases garnered them untold amounts in donations, their phony agents got to dress up like "real-live cops" complete with guns-a-blazin', over-inflated egos got blown up some more.  So what that these owners were denied their rights and helpless animals ended up dead, right? 

OPPOSE KY HB 517: BAD FOR OWNERS, ANIMALS AND THE STATE OF KY

Call or write to the Chairman of the House Agriculture and Small Business Committee, Representative Tom McKee.  Then call 1-800-372-7181 and leave a message for YOUR state Rep. to OPPOSE KY HB 517 in its entirety.  It is also a good idea to email them as well!

Join our page on Facebook, "Stop KY HB517: Bad for Animal Owners, Animals, And The State!"

Once you join our page, please "share" the link with your Facebook friends by posting the link on your own profile page.

It will take all of us working together to keep KY HSUS-free!

Jefferson County, Alabama: You are a Puppy Mill If...

You might be a "puppy mill" if...you own more animals than someone else thinks you should.
You might be a "puppy mill" if...you don't adhere to the same standards of care that someone else thinks you should.
And...hold on to your hats, folks, because this next one is new to me!

You might be a "puppy mill" if...you happen to own Jack Russell Terriers AND drive a truck with a camper shell and said animals are VISIBLE in their crates to law enforcement, who just happen to be driving behind you while traveling through the Birmingham, Alabama area.

Let the Criminalization of Transporting Dogs Begin...
Over the weekend a story began circulating on dog related email lists regarding a lady and her daughter on their way to a Jack Russell Terrier Trial in Germantown, Tennessee.  While traveling through Jefferson County, Alabama, the exhibitor was stopped by local law enforcement.

According to the dog owner, the policeman asked her if she knew why she was stopped and she told them, "No I don't".   He said, "I stopped you because I saw you had dogs in your truck".

In an email sent by Lt. Randy Christian, Office of Sheriff, Jefferson County, Alabama, "She was stopped driving a Truck with a Camper Shell. Multiple dogs were visible in rear camper window. This Captain is familiar with people who run "puppy mills" and these were all the same breed and were puppies. The 3 visible in the back window were visible panting."

So, here we have it spelled out for us in black and white:  in Jefferson County, Alabama, if you are driving a truck with a camper shell AND have dogs visible in the back (which were in crates by the way), that is now probable cause for law enforcement to stop you? 

In case some of you need it spelled out, Jefferson County law enforcement has CRIMINALIZED the mere possession of having dogs and puppies in YOUR vehicle.  And unless I missed the memo, there is NO legal definition--in any law, in any state--of "puppy mill". 

There are many, many more obervations about this entire incident, but I will save those for another day.

Victimizing the Victim by Those That SHOULD Know Better...
I guess being in the trenches fighting the animal rights nazis can make you crazy after awhile because that is what seems to have happened to many people whom I NEVER dreamed would victimize this lady. 

Accusations of "it's a hoax", "you're a liar"....I would expect that reaction from the bunny huggers and the animal rights diehards, but not from the very people who are accutely aware of this exact type of harrassment taking place all over the country!

The bottom line is this...what happened to this dog owner is proof positive that the falsely named "Humane Society of the United States" has taken their hatred of dog breeders--and therefore the arbitrary term "puppy mill"--to now criminalize the act of having dogs and puppies in your vehicle too?.  We read about breeders being raided and harrassed at their homes on a weekly basis it seems like; people being criminalized for breeding animals, for crying out loud!  Or for having too many animals!

I can't reiterate this point enough:  this woman was stopped FOR HAVING DOGS IN HER VEHICLE.  Period.  End of story.  Panting dogs my ass.  Just how close was this officer driving behind her anyways? The dogs were in crates, how in the hell could anyone **know** from driving behind the vehicle exactly whether or not ALL the dogs were the same breed--much less if they are puppies or young adults.

Furthermore, it may come as a total shock to some of you, but there are dog events in this country that do not REQUIRE YOU to pre-enter.  How many of you fellow exhibitors take your entry confirmation WITH YOU to the dog show? 

Oh, and for all the AKC dog show snobs that say that folks that choose to participate in UKC, AHBA, or in any other venue (other than AKC) are "puppy mill" people, or "responsible breeders don't participate in those lesser registries events.."    GET OVER YOURSELVES and please don't offer to help in the fight for animal ownership rights...we have enough enemies as it is from the AR side.

Arkansas: The Vet's Views-Could YOU Be Raided by HSUS?

The following was written by a Veterinarian following the HSUS raid on an Arkansas dog kennel.  There are always two sides to every story.

*********************************************
The Vet's Views

Paris Veterinary Clinic

Could You Be Raided?

By James E. Shearer

Recently a kennel owner in our area was "raided" by the Humane Society of the United States and the Arkansas Chapter of the organization according to the Paris Express. The Northwest Arkansas - Arkansas Democrat Gazette ran at least 4 days of articles. One was from an interview with the owners. There are many things that are disturbing about this.


First there are some that have a biased opinion of breeding dogs. Animal husbandry has been practiced for centuries. This includes selective breeding to develop better animals for intended uses. We have developed rescue dogs, sentry dogs, retrievers, bird dogs, stock dogs and different natures pets to name a few. The activist buzz name is "puppy mill". How do people describe your hobbies, habits or business if they personally despise it? Animal husbandry, as well as agricultural practices, in this nation have been able to provide for our needs and much of the world's. Animal neglect and cruelty is not profitable or productive. If the few radical people had their way we would be in desperate circumstances.


Second, our nation was founded on personal initiative and personal property with property rights. We are a civilized nation and respect the rule of law. Your freedom ends where other's freedom begins. We have democratically set laws for the protection of all systems to execute these laws we have deemed necessary. While the system isn't perfect it has exceeded all others. We do seem to be having problems with eccentric groups that exploit the system to their desires that are far from the "spirit" of our laws - that is - our wholesome intentions. There are times private property is used to do evil things and we, by necessity, deal with these cases. However, under the same rules invasion of private property can be affected by activists that have the time and means to use against anyone of normal or less resources doing their best to be a productive member of our society. Somehow reason and public opinion will overcome. A free-unbiased press with! reporters for integrity and a reasonably informed public is necessary for a free society to operate.
 
Third, standards of acceptable facilities and care of animals have been established and are applicable under specified conditions. A USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) kennel license is required to sell puppies to wholesale brokers. Other licenses are involved for transportation, exhibition, research and many other defined activities. The Animal Welfare Act and Animal Welfare regulations are the legal basis for the licensing. No license is required if it isn't included or is exempted in the regulations. It is difficult to insure personal freedoms and yet regulate requirements. That is why we go through debate in our law making. There are always some that are not satisfied.

Forth, the public perception of an incident is greatly influenced by the publicity. Many things are dealt with involving only those affected. Those possess more complete knowledge close to the situation and farther broadcast is of no other benefit. The curious and nosey are forever wanting to know and crusaders with their cause are postured to capitalize on these events.

Fifth, accurate newspaper and T.V. reporting has its hurdles. The most difficulty that I perceive is the source and reliability of facts. The only ones that want to be quoted are the ignorant or the ones with a cause. The victim has more pressing concerns. The officials are also tediously tending to business. Most situations are far more involved than can accurately be represented. Tedious research is really needed to be fair. In fairness to the media, it would be nearly impossible to be fully informed in every case, which they are called upon to report. Guilty is often the verdict in the news at the time but the actual conclusion in the end is the opposite. I don't know if we excuse them as readily as we do the forecasters. However, an experienced reporter should be able to see a spoon fed set up.

Sixth, the law enforcement is only an instrument that is responsible to act on "credible" information with a due process that is designed to apprehend the guilty with the evidence. A judge as a safe guard against persecution issues warrants, and yes gives a means to proceed. By the time a warrant is executed all bases should be covered. However there are people that exploit this process.

In the case of the raid on the Krupczinski's kennel and farm there is a lot more to the story. There were problems and opinions as to the progress on the problems. Dor several years outside activists have repeatedly assumed their business did need action from outside. There was a herd of miniature horses on the farm that were basically semi-wild but seen to and well fed. An unnamed onlooker invoked the state Coggins law by reporting them to the state. Fifty three horses were caught and tested and sold because of the situation and difficulty of annual testing. The cost was over $20.00 each. They certainly weren't the only horses in Arkansas that didn't have their annual test. Harassing visits were made to the USDA licensed kennel by activists. The sheriff was involved because of the adversarial nature of the acquisitive people wanting to inspect for themselves. The Krupczinski's had difficulty with the USDA inspectors and after a time dropped their license according to them but was recorded by the USDA as suspended (or revoked). The license required that a veterinarian be listed that provided a health care plan for vaccinations, parasite control and emergency care. A minimum of annual visits is required. I was the veterinarian that served them. Beside the annual inspections we have a record of 80 animals that were brought to the clinic for various medical attention. I'm aware of other cases taken to other veterinarians in the area. As a practicing veterinarian I never liked to be placed in the position of being the solution of the USDA's responsibility and yet being paid by the client. I view myself as serving the needs of our community. I do what I love, but also what is necessary. I was miss-reported by the Arkansas Democratic Gazette as one of the complaints at the humane Society received July '07. I did visit the kennel for a USDA inspection (requested by the Krupczinski's and required by the USDA inspector) in January 2007. I recommended that they needed to reduce the number of dogs considering their health and the lack of available help. We did euthanize three dogs that day. I never complained to Humane Society. Their inspection was past due, but I view the appointment to be the responsibility of the kennel owner. After all, they may choose to use a different veterinarian. Most of the kennels I serve use other veterinarians besides me on occasions for various reasons. I make it a point not to inspect their house - that isn't part of the licensed kennel and none of my business. The picture in the Paris Express with a Humane Society worker wearing a hazmat suit holding a little puppy was designed to express horrid conditions. The Humane Society provided this picture to the paper. One picture is worth 1000 words. Unfortunately the Humane Society was the source of the information to the news. In the Arkansas Democratic Gazette 28 mini horses (on inventory list) and one larger horse was reported as 36. Many were said to be pregnant as if that was a fault. However, they were reported to being rescued by a miniature horse breeder in North Dakota. I suspect that the medical attention the horses needed was coggins testing and vaccinations.

Medical attention sounds worse. The Arkansas Democratic Gazette did give an interview with the Krupczinski's and cut them some slack for their age and health. They also reported 130 dogs being placed by and through the Sebastian County Humane Society in the last 6 months. 309 were taken. They reported none of the animals were euthanized. Not true, I had to euthanize a cat that had it's jaw broken during its capture. I performed this service for the Humane Society by the request of Desiree Bender. They haven't picked up the extra large carrier they brought it in.

According to the sheriff's inventory there were 309 dogs, 8 cats, 5 birds, 29 horses and 10 turtles taken. 71 dogs were reported as taken from the house. That leaves 238 dogs to be elsewhere. The kennels had 2 sundowner kennel buildings with a total of 64 indoor-outdoor units. There was a well-constructed building with 16 indoor-outdoor units. A second building had 8 units of indoor-outdoor for larger dogs. Besides these were 14 outdoor units with doghouses. Besides these grouped units there were 4-6 other outdoor units with houses - 2 very large. With only 2 dogs per unit there is ample room for 216 dogs. USDA standards will allow 3 to 4 dogs per unit depending on the size of the dogs.


Leonard Krupczinski is a retired decorated Marine of the Korean and Viet nam wars and Caterpillar repair mechanic. You will never meet a more capable or creative individual. Until his health gave way his age didn't stop him from out-working 3-4 young men. I am saddened to see this couple have their property taken and be humiliated in public. I am especially upset that a national "charitable" organization can inflict suffering in the name of Humanity. Surely we can work things out better than this.

S.O.S KILL The HSUS Bills Phone-AThon Tennessee

There are some nasty HSUS backed bills in Tennessee that need to die.  So, on Monday, April 13, 2009, get ready to CALL, FAX, or at the very least email the committee members (as well as your own rep) to send the strong unified message that we are OPPOSED to these bills.  The ARs do this all the time...They stage call-in days and bombard the lawmakers with calls/faxes.  WE must do the same!

Please forward this post to any individual, group/club, groomer, pet sitter, breeder, dog owner, anyone that can lend a few minutes to send these H$U$ bills to their grave!

Animal Forfeiture Bill, HB 0626, will be heard Tuesday, April 14, before the House Calendar and Rules Committee   Bill Summary:  In animal cruelty prosecutions, if a defendant is ordered to post court security to pay for expenses of caring for the animal, s/he currently has 15 business days to come up with the money. If s/he can't do that the ownership rights are lost. This bill will change the time limit to 72 hours, which is very little time considering that the person will also need to find money for an attorney and bail, and the amount of money required for the security is likely to be considerable.

The bill will also remove the following wording:  " However, if the person from whom the animal was seized is not the owner of the animal and the person has not posted the court-ordered security within fifteen (15) days, the court shall order the governmental animal control agency or the humane society to make all reasonable efforts to determine who the owner of the animal is and to notify the owner of the pending proceeding. No animal shall be deemed to have been abandoned and forfeited to the governmental animal control agency or humane society until reasonable attempts to determine and notify the owner have been made."

This wording gives rightful owners an opportunity to reclaim pets that have been stolen or otherwise ended up in the hands of an (alleged) animal abuser.


The take home message here is that both of the above-mentioned changes will make it easier or more likely for an innocent person to lose his/her animals. They also could result in overzealous prosecution and/or abuse of process. More information concerning the problems with asset forfeiture programs can be found here: http://www.fear.org// .
 
Innocent people DO get accused of animal abuse, and, unless they are wealthy, they will almost certainly lose their animals and go bankrupt while defending themselves. As our legal system is based on "innocent until proven guilty," it would be better to have the person reimburse the costs if and only if found guilty.
 
HOUSE CALENDAR AND RULES COMMITTEE MEMBERS: (please contact each member and ask them to OPPOSE this bill.  The phone/fax numbers are for their Nashville offices)
Chair: Rep. Bill Dunn
R-Knoxville, District 16 - Part of Knox Cty: Phone (615) 741-1721 Fax (615) 253-0276
rep.bill.dunn@capitol.tn.gov
Vice-Chair: Rep. Larry Turner
D-Memphis District 85 - Part of Shelby Cty:  Phone (615) 741-6954 Fax (615) 741-3144
rep.larry.turner@capitol.tn.gov  
Secretary: Rep. Matthew Hill
R-Jonesborough District 7 - Part of Washington Cty: Phone: 615-741-2251 rep.matthew.hill@capitol.tn.gov
Members:  Rep. Joe Armstrong  Phone (615) 741-0768 Fax (615) 253-0316
rep.joe.armstrong@capitol.tn.gov  ; Rep. Stratton Bone JR D-Lebanon District 46 - Cannon, Trousdale and part of Wilson Cties: Phone (615) 741-7086 Fax (615) 741-2405 rep.stratton.bone@capitol.tn.gov  ;Rep. Harry Brooks R-Knoxville District 19 - Part of Knox Cty: Phone (615) 741-6879 Fax (615) 253-0212
rep.harry.brooks@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Glen Casada R-Franklin District 63 - Part of Williamson Cty: Phone (615) 741-4389 rep.glen.casada@capitol.tn.gov ;Rep. Kent Coleman D-Murfreesboro District 49 - Part of Rutherford Cty: Phone (615) 741-6829 Fax (615) 253-0332 rep.kent.coleman@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. John J. Deberry JR. D-Memphis District 90 - Part of Shelby Cty: Phone (615) 741-2239 Fax (615) 253-0294
rep.john.deberry@capitol.tn.gov ;Rep. Lois DeBerry D-Memphis District 91 - Part of Shelby Cty: Phone (615) 741-3830 Fax (615) 741-3992 rep.lois.deberry@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Craig Fitzhugh D-Ripley
District 82 - Lauderdale, Crockett and part of Dyer Cties: Phone (615) 741-2134 Fax (615) 741-1446
rep.craig.fitzhugh@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Bill Harmon D-Dunlap District 37 - Sequatchie, Van Buren, Grundy and Marion Cties: Phone (615) 741-6849 Fax (615) 253-0264 rep.bill.harmon@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Beth Harwell R-Nashville District 56 - Part of Davidson Cty: Phone (615) 741-0709 Fax (615) 741-4917
rep.beth.harwell@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Susan M. Lynn R-Mt. Juliet District 57 - Part of Sumner and Wilson Cties: Phone (615) 741-7462 Fax (615) 253-0353 rep.susan.lynn@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Judd Matheny

R-Tullahoma District 47 - Coffee and part of Warren Cties: Phone (615) 741-7448 Fax (615) 253-0226
rep.judd.matheny@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Joe McCord R-Maryville District 8 - Parts of Blount and Sevier Cties: Phone (615) 741-5481 Fax (615) 253-0220 rep.joe.mccord@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Gerald
McCormick R-Chattanooga District 26 - Part of Hamilton Cty: Phone (615) 741-2548 Fax (615) 253-0305 rep.gerald.mccormick@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Steve McManus R-Cordova District 96 - Part of Shelby Cty: Phone (615) 741-1920 Fax (615) 253-0232 rep.steve.mcmanus@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Gary W. Moore, SR D-Joelton District 50 - Part of Davidson Cty: Phone (615) 741-4317 Fax (615) 253-0360
rep.gary.moore@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Jason E. Mumpower R-Bristol District 3 - Johnson and part of Sullivan Cties: Phone (615) 741-2050 Fax (615) 253-0298 rep.jason.mumpower@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Gary Odom D-Nashville District 55 - Part of Davidson Cty: Phone (615) 741-4410 Fax (615) 741-7528
rep.gary.odom@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Curry Todd R-Collierville District 95 - Part of Shelby Cty: Phone (615) 741-1866 Fax (615) 532-8221 rep.curry.todd@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Joe Towns, JR D-Memphis
District 84 - Parts of Shelby Cty: Phone (615) 741-2189 Fax (615) 253-0201 rep.joe.towns@capitol.tn.gov ; Rep. Mike Turner D-Old Hickory District 51 - Part of Davidson Cty: Phone (615) 741-3229 Fax (615) 741-4322 rep.mike.turner@capitol.tn.gov ; Speaker Kent Williams Carter Cty Republican-Elizabethton District 4 - Carter Cty: Phone (615) 741-7450 Fax (615) 253-0310
speaker.kent.williams@capitol.tn.gov

 Commercial Breeder Act [HB0368]: House Judiciary (full committee) on the 15th.


Commercial Breeder Act [SB0258]: Senate Commerce, Labor, and Agriculture Committee on the 15th.

PLEASE CALL/FAX/ or EMAIL BOTH of these committees and ask them to OPPOSE this bill (both identical versions) 

The National Animal Interest Alliance has set up the CapWiz on their website.  This will work for Tennessee residents ONLY...IT IS SUPER SIMPLE!  Click and send and your message will be sent to ALL of the committee members!!!  If you would rather fax, you may still use the NAIA site.  When your letter is complete, just print and fax! 

House Judiciary Committee (FULL committee)  (click for complete info on each member!)

Senate Commerce, Labor and Agriculture Committee  (click for complete info on each member!)

In some significant ways, these bills resemble HSUS supported anti-breeder legislation that has shown up in several other states so far this year.

The Tennessee Commercial Breeder Act:


* Applies to dogs and cats.

* Defines a commercial breeder as anyone who possesses or maintains 20 or more adult female dogs  for the purpose of the sale of their offspring as companion animals”.

* Limits the number of dogs/cats a commercial breeder can maintain to 75 unsterilized “companion animals” over the age of 6 months.NOTE: (In the current amended version, the 75 cap has been removed...as of 4/12/09)

* Requires annual licensing of commercial breeders and sets up a fee structure of $500 per year for those owning 20-40 adult companion animals, and $1000 per year for those owning 41-75.

* Empowers the Commissioner of Agriculture to grant licenses, oversee compliance with standards, rules and regulations, and suspend licenses for non-compliance or cruelty. Breeder will be given a 10-day
written notice of suspensions and may be granted a hearing to contest. Violations would constitute a Class B misdemeanor punishable by fine only.

* Licenses will only be granted to applicants of “good moral character” after a criminal background check and inspection of the premises. (NOTE: In the current amended version, the wording "good moral character" has been removed)

* Allows commercial breeder premises and records to be inspected at all reasonable times by the Commissioner, a representative of the Commissioner, or a legally constituted law enforcement agency.

* Requires commercial breeders to file semi-annual reports on the number of dogs/cats in their possession, the number of dogs/cats sold including the names and addresses of who purchased them, and the number of dogs/cats received by the breeder that were not purchased including the names and addresses of who they obtained them from.

* Grants the Commissioner authority to confiscate animals for failure to license and hand them over to local or federal animal welfare agencies or humane organization, like ASPCA or HSUS, and order the breeder to pay a security bond that could be transferred to the agency/organization for the cost of care.

* Subjects violators to a fine of $1000 per animal sold, offered or advertised without a license.

This Act reads as though its main preoccupation is to introduce a complex layer of state regulation that will generate revenue through licenses and fines, not directly improve actual care and conditions for animals.

Many of the definitions provided are unclear and inconsistent and consequently make hobby breeders, trainers, handlers, hunt clubs, boarding kennels and private rescue networks vulnerable to commercial requirements.

We oppose number limits because they are arbitrary, unscientific and have been found to be unenforceable and vulnerable to court challenges. Furthermore, they have never been successful in addressing irresponsible breeding or negligent rescue operations. Limits and caps drive pet owners and breeders underground where they are harder to oversee and prevent abuse.

We believe there are more effective solutions available to help eliminate substandard kennels, from greater enforcement of existing anti-cruelty and nuisance laws to educating consumers about how to seek out responsible and humane sources of healthy pets.

Politely explain that this legislation misses the mark. Offer your expertise as a Tennessee resident with hands-on animal experience who they can rely on instead of an out of state organization for their information about pet issues.


Please call, fax or email the representatives and senators that will be hearing ALL of these important issues!   Government officials work FOR the people...Politely let them know you OPPOSE these 3 bills !!!!

Sleeping With The Enemy in Tennessee

The HSUS Kool-Aid has made its way to Tennessee,  as evidenced by the state's ANTI breeder bill that is being supported by several of the AKC all breed dog clubs. ("We just HAVE TO get rid of those terrible "puppy mill" people"...yeah, whatever that means...)

Called the "Commercial Breeder Act", SB258/HB386  seeks to label breeders who "possesses or maintains at least 20 female dogs in order to sell their offspring as companion animals" as commercial breeders.  Once again, a "magic number" is being introduced....a number that can easily be LOWERED at the whim of the HSUS and lawmakers.   What's worse, the bill calls for WARRANTLESS inspections, guidelines for breeders to follow that aren't described in this bill.....AND .....before a license is issued it must be determined that the applicant is of "GOOD MORAL CHARACTER"....

Does any of this sound VAGUELY familiar to anyone???   Does this sound like the other dozens of ANTI breeder bills being pushed around the country??? 

How many "hobby breeders" co-own bitches with other people as well as "possess" bitches at their homes?   Under this bill, the burden of proving you are NOT intending to sell those bitches' offspring falls on your head...and, just how exactly, would a person do that?  The short answer is:  YOU CAN'T.  Think about it.  It's not hard to reach the magical "20" number. ( "But, Mr Animal Control Officer, those 3 bitch puppies over there....I'm holding onto them to see if they will be show quality or not.....and, well, I don't actually own those over there 'cuz they are just here for me to show and train...")


So, what if someone has, say 19...or 18...Guess that pesky detail will have to be changed next year, huh?  When are people going to wake up?  Obviously not soon enough, since the House version of this Anti breeder bill passed yesterday.  The Senate is expected to vote soon.  Rather than stand up and CONFRONT the bully that is the HSUS head-on, the dog fancy has chosen to "protect itself" and throw somebody else under the bus. 

Act now:  Write, call, fax the senators in Tennessee and tell them to OPPOSE SB258....Tennessee already has cruelty/neglect laws on the books, and Commercial Breeders are already licensed and regulated under the USDA.  Placing the "burden of proof" on the accused as this bill is written is unconstitutional as it deprives the breeder of due process under law.

Who, I wonder, will be left to stand up when the HSUS comes for you.....and your breeding program....hmm...

Good Moral Character Required for Dog Breeders

Nevada is the only state in the Nation where the oldest profession known to man...-er...woman-kind, is legal in some counties.  The state known for glitzy casinos, quickie divorces, and legalized prostitution is calling for a higher standard for dog breeders.  Yep, if you want to breed a litter of puppies or kittens in Nevada, ya' gotta be of "good MORAL character".

The state of Nevada is the latest victim in the Humane Society of the United States' all out anti-dog breeder legislative campaign.  SB241 seeks to, among other things:

• Impose $500 breeder permit  (wow! That's expensive considering there is also a bill being proposed there that would levy ONLY $5 tax on "human sex acts")
• Make microchipping of dogs mandatory
• Limit the LIFETIME litters of any dog to 2 litters
• AND "Breeders Must Posess "Good Moral Character"

So, I ask you the million dollar question:  Just WHO in the hell is going to be the judge in Nevada as to "good moral character"????   THINK ABOUT IT! 

But considering that the H$U$ is pushing these cookie cutter ANTI breeding bills across the country, I guess even a prostitute is of higher moral character than the ever-so-cleverly-deceptive H$US and company...At least you "know" right up front what a prostitute is all about.  The H$U$, however, continues to mislead millions of hardworking folks with good intentions into "donating" to what the majority still believe will benefit their local shelter or will help the H$U$ on their "war on puppymills".  When in fact, all those hard earned dollars will go to their already HUGE warchest to end the production of meat, fur, fishing, and to put "ever-so-greedy dog breeders" out of existence.

Give Wayne-O and company the boot, Nevada.  Ya'll have got a lot more to worry about than the "good moral character" of dog breeders.

NEVADA: Give HSUS The Boot April 7 Hearing

Heads up, Nevada....HSUS and company are ridin' into town....Gather up the posse` and send 'em back squealin! 

The following article appeared in The Wendover Times, and is posted here with the permission of the author. 

NOTE:  THE HEARING FOR THIS BILL HAS BEEN CHANGED TO APRIL 7!!!!  For more information and to join the FIGHT for your RIGHTS and ANIMALS, please contact:  info@savernvanimals.org     
http://www.savernvanimals.org/    

************************************************************************

David Meets Goliath in the Old West

by B. Kubichka

Dateline: Elko - Nevada

Most people don’t think too often about Nevada, well maybe Las Vegas comes to mind. But when the ranchers and other animal breeders and lovers in this sagebrush covered, windswept, high desert town, tucked in the eastern corner of the great Silver State, found out the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) was a comin’ to town with their big city anti-animal breeder agenda, well that burr was too much for them to tolerate under their saddles.

That’s when the good and hearty folk - ranchers and the plain talkin’ townsfolk had enough! No big city D.C. city slickers were going to tell these good old boys--the tough and sun weathered independent ranchers and farmers --how to run their lives.

These D.C. big city outsiders from HSUS, decided it was high time they invaded this dusty Western state with their animal rights agenda and animal welfare laws. Just because these Old Timers don’t talk much, old HSUS decided, they must be asleep at the wheel. Well when these independent old frontier folk got wind of this plot against their freedom and their constitutional rights, and well, they got mad. Nobody was going to tell them how to run their lives, no siree!




Well then an amazing thing happened in this lonely corner of this vast desert state--the good and independent pioneer spirit of the Old West was galvanized! People woke up. People became red blooded, fighting Americans again! No way was HSUS going to tell the good people of this state how to run their lives. The good folk of the Old West were not going to take this outside interference laying down!

An amazing grassroots effort sprung up between these many disgruntled Nevadans. It eventually took a turn and turned into an organization of the people--just ordinary folk of Nevada, but with that independent and self reliant spirit.
 
One such person was a woman, Cheri. A slender, Western gal, golden by working outside in the clear blue skies and strong Nevada sun, more comfortable in jeans than a little black dress. Cheri, who is a small breeder of AKC purebred cattle dogs, was so outraged by the audacity of HSUS, of assuming they know what is best for her state and for her animals, she just knew she had to do something! So she became the Elko hub of the grassroots, just plain Nevadans movement, Savernvanimals.org.
 
According to Cheri, “No way is HSUS coming here! You will not come to our state and tell us how to run things!” She feels as many other Nevadans do, that local government handles these animal issues “just fine and to our satisfaction”. She stresses, “We don’t want or need your [HSUS] presence in Carson City [state capitol] telling our legislators how to think. The work for us!”
 
And another thing, Cheri says is, “We don’t want you [HSUS] telling the world that “Nevada is one of the five worst states in the United States.....and that you say “In Nevada, well anything goes...”. As a proud Nevadan and of independent spirt, Cheri was outraged when she saw this statement in the HSUS press release on their very own website.
 
“It’s insulting", she continues, she says they [HSUS] also says Nevada is a puppy mill state, when according to the USDA , who monitors and licenses commercial kennels, there are only two ‘commercial breeders’ in the entire state of Nevada, and they don’t even breed dogs”, she exclaims!
 
So Cheri got mad, very mad. She pulled together a coalition of ranchers, farmers, vets, and just plain towns folk who love their animals and their independence, and formed a caravan, a big caravan. And it’s planning on coming to Carson City on April 9th to attend the big rally against SB241, the Nevada Puppymill Bill proposed in part by HSUS and a Senator Townsend, who isn’t from around these parts. (NOTE:  The date has been changed to APRIL 7th, for more info, please email info@savernvanimals.org )
 
According to Cheri, HSUS and the collaborating legislators should be scared, “....because us old Cowboys won’t be asking you twice to pack your bags and leave our state and never come back. We are officially giving you the boot out of Nevada!”


+++
Sources:

[www.hsus.org/press_and_publications/press_releases/worst_exotic_pet_states_031809.html]
[www.aphis.usda.gov/animal_welfare/efoia/index.shtml]breeder reports
Savernvanimals.org is a grassroots organization of Nevadans from all animal areas, be they rancher or pet owner, and is opposed to the loss of our constitutional rights as guaranteed by the Bill of Rights, and serves to help protect plain Nevada animal folk from the threat of bigger and bigger government, not to mention the unfunded mandates these proposed laws require of Nevada taxpayers.

HSUS Sinks to New Low, Even For Them

This week, Wayne and company (the H$U$), hit a new low by pimping out kids to lawmakers in Tennessee. Not teenagers, little kids belonging to Brownie Troop 550 in Nashville. (And just where were these kids parents, anyway??) This latest ploy had the kids lobbying on behalf of the H$U$ to "stop puppymills" in Tennessee.

We all know the H$U$ relies on emotion over facts and common sense, and sadly the majority of Americans oblige. There are several "visuals", that when put before even the most level-headed, will cause an opening of the wallet (sad little puppy and kitty photos, "Help us, please")....and the wide innocent eyes of young children ("Hey, Mister Lawmaker, would you make those bad dog breeders not be mean to those poor doggies anymore?")

It is no secret that Wayne and Insane Ingrid are trying to indoctrinate our youth and brainwash them in the ways of veganism. But, c'mon!!! Taking advantage of the innocence of YOUNG children that don't understand the issues involved...and aren't even old enough to vote! Parading them up and down the halls of the state capitol...using their innocence and their emotions to push your ANTI-breeder agenda... That's a new low, even for you, Wayne-o. Shame on you.

Tennessees' breeders are just one of the many states being targeted by the wealthy animal rights group. Senate Bill 258, sponsored by Sen. Doug Jackson (D-25) and House Bill 386, sponsored by Rep. Janis Baird Sontany (D-53) places breeding of purebred dogs under criminal animal cruelty statutes. The bills classify a Commercial breeder as any person who possesses or maintains twenty (20) or more adult female dogs in whole or in part for the purpose of the sale of their offspring as companion animals. If even one litter of puppies is produced, a commercial breeder licensing would be required. Ownership of 75 is the absolute limit. Background checks will be required for applicants, and the state will determine if the applicant is of good moral character and deserving of the license.

HSUS State Director, Leighann McCollum, responding on behalf of Sen. Doug Jackson confirmed that USDA regulations currently in effect under the Dog and Cat Dealer Act (44-17-101) will be required for the new commercial breeder kennels. Senate Bill 258 was referred to Senate Committee Commerce Labor & Agriculture Feb. 19; no hearings are scheduled at this time.

Everyone knows that most states are facing the most troubling economic times we have seen since the Depression, so does the H$U$. Wayne and company may be morally bankrupt, but they aren't stupid; they know what sells, and in this case, when the going gets tough, NO child is safe or above being pimped out for their breeder elimination plan.

Dog Owners: We are NOT Done MORE HSUS Bills Must Die

We aren't done in Illinois. While the anti dock/crop bill appears to have been defeated, there are still ***2*** MAJOR issues that need our attention.  We are a large, powerful group and the "KILL THE BILLS" phone-a-thon is working!  Keep up the pressure!  The first being the hearing TOMORROW, MARCH 11, in Springfield, HB198 and SB53, the anti breeder bill.   PLEASE use the links provided at the AKC for sample letters you can personalize to help KILL this BILL!  The Illinois Veterinary Medical Association and the AKC remain opposed.

The second bill requiring our help is the MSN ordinance in Chicago.   Hearing on Thursday, MARCH 12...The Chicago Veterinary Med. Ass'n, the Illinois State Veterinary Med Ass'n AND the AKC are OPPOSED to this ordinance and all of its amendments.

I have it on good authority from someone involved in the fight that the HSUS has PROMISED to take this MSN ordinance in ALL directions of the country, should it pass. It is CRUCIAL we all step up to the plate and help each other and preserve our rights to ***choose*** when, where and how invasive surgical procedures are done.

For great sample letters that you can personalize and send to the Chicago Aldermen, please visit the following AKC link by clicking HERE .

URGENT, ANTI-BREEDER BILL TO BE HEARD WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, SPRINGFIELD, IL

 Please VOICE your opposition via fax, email and phone to save hobby breeders in Illinois.  This is another HSUS backed bill designed to eliminate breeders.  DO NOT LET THEM WIN.

The following is from the AKC.  For sample letters, for everyone both in and out of state, please click HERE

House Bill 198 and Senate Bill 53


These bills are supposedly an attempt to address “puppy mills” and irresponsible dog breeders in Illinois. However, these bills affect many small-scale hobby breeders and create unreasonable standards for
commercial breeders who are in compliance with current state and federal laws. Their passage will not improve enforcement or the lives of animals in Illinois.

The Illinois Department of Agriculture already has a licensing program in place which requires breeders with more than 5 intact females to be licensed. The “puppy mill” that sparked the introduction of this bill was not licensed as current law required and was being investigated by the Department of Agriculture.

Although draft amendments that have been circulating would allow the Department of Agriculture to administer the bill (current bill language establishes a new program in the Department of Financial and Professional Regulations), the provisions continue to be burdensome and will not improve animal welfare.

Enforcement of current laws is the most effective way to address animal care issues in Illinois.

House Bill 198 is scheduled to be heard:

Wednesday, March 11, 2009
2:00 p.m.
House Business & Occupational Licenses Committee
Illinois State Capitol, Stratton Building
Room D-1
Springfield, IL

Senate Bill 53 is scheduled to be heard:

Wednesday, March 11, 2009
3:00 p.m.
Senate Licensed Activities Committee
Illinois State Capitol, Room 409
Springfield, IL

What You Can Do:

* Call your Illinois State Representative and State Senator TODAY.
Tell them that you are a constituent and ask them to oppose HB 198, SB 53

*Personalize sample letters to send to your representatives. Due to the speed at which these items may move, we highly suggest sending your message in an email or by fax. Click here to find out who represents you in the Illinois State Legislature. (please go to link above to find your rep AND for sample letters)

When You Choose To Dance With The Devil...

I know there are many folks that read my blog that are new to the fight against the Animal Rights lunatic fringe.  Hell, when I first started my education into the 'dark side', I didn't know what to think or which side to believe.  After reading this post, I hope ya'll will now believe me when I tell you that the Animal Rights believers hate us: US meaning breeders, owners of purebreds, those of us that choose to buy our dogs from a breeder rather than a shelter.

Those that choose to support the lunatic fringe Animal Rights movement do not deserve our support.  That goes for corporations, small businesses, even authors.  One thing that us sane folks can do is send our message loud and clear:  If you support or sympathize with the Animal Rights groups, such as PeTA or the HSUS, we will take our business elsewhere.  If you choose to allow any Animal Rights group to "endorse" your business or product, there will be consequences:  such as taking our business and our hard-earned dollars elsewhere.  The following is posted with permission from Sharyn Hutchens.  The first is a letter that Sharyn wrote to the author.  The last is the response from the author herself, who has obviously drank waayy too much of PeTA's Kool-Aid. 

Date: Jan 22, 2009 10:03 PM

Subject: Your book
To: Alana Stevenson, MS, CDBC
Dog and Cat Behavior Specialist, Trainer

Dear Alana,

A friend recommended your book, "The Right Way the First Time," very highly to me. I was on the verge of ordering it when she called me back and said not to -- that there is an endorsement from PETA on the front of it and she was afraid PETA might be receiving money from it.

What does it mean when an organization that kills 97 percent of the animals it "rescues" endorses a book on positive training methods? I live in Virginia and have followed their antics and atrocities for years. Dogs are my life and there was a time when I would have loved to be a supporter -- People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals?  Gosh, that is exactly what I've promoted literally since I could talk!  But the more I looked into PETA's philosophy, the more I realized how truly sick this organization is.

Your association with PETA will only do you harm. It has already cost you this sale, the respect of my friend (a professional trainer) and the sales you'd have gotten when she recommended it to all her students. I know it is probably not about money to you, but I'm sure you don't want to be associated with people who admit freely that they do not believe in keeping pets at all and who routinely kill healthy animals who could be placed into new homes.

I don't expect you to change your allegiance to them due to a letter from a stranger, but I do hope you will investigate them further. You can start with the following quotations (all with citations) from their founder and CEO -- the first few are the PETA view about pet ownership. The next couple will give you an insight on just how twisted these people are. I cannot imagine anyone with your obvious intelligence willingly being used by these people.

"In a perfect world, animals would be free to live their lives to the fullest: raising their young, enjoying their native environments, and following their natural instincts. However, domesticated dogs and cats cannot survive "free" in our concrete jungles, so we must take as good care of them as possible. People with the time, money, love, and patience to make a lifetime commitment to an animal can make an enormous difference by adopting from shelters or rescuing animals from a perilous life on the street. But it is also important to stop manufacturing "pets," thereby perpetuating a class of animals forced to rely on humans to survive." PETA pamphlet, Companion Animals: Pets or Prisoners?

"I don't use the word "pet." I think it's speciesist language. I prefer "companion animal." For one thing, we would no longer allow breeding. People could not create different breeds. There would be no pet shops. If people had companion animals in their homes, those animals would have to be refugees from the animal shelters and the streets. You would have a protective relationship with them just as you would with an orphaned child. But as the surplus of cats and dogs (artificially engineered by centuries of forced breeding) declined, eventually companion animals would be phased out, and we would return to a more symbiotic relationship ­ enjoyment at a distance." Ingrid Newkirk, PETA vice-president, quoted in The Harper's Forum Book, Jack Hitt, ed., 1989, p.223.

"Pet ownership is an absolutely abysmal situation brought about by human manipulation." Ingrid Newkirk, national director, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PeTA), Just Like Us? Harper's, August 1988, p. 50.

"As John Bryant has written in his book Fettered Kingdoms, they [pets] are like slaves, even if well-kept slaves." PeTA's Statement on Companion Animals.

"The bottom line is that people don't have the right to manipulate or to breed dogs and cats ... If people want toys, they should buy inanimate objects. If they want companionship, they should seek it with their own kind," Ingrid Newkirk, founder, president and former national director, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PeTA), Animals, May/June1993

"Six million people died in concentration camps, but six billion broiler chickens will die this year in slaughterhouses." Ingrid Newkirk, founder, president and former national director, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, as quoted in Chip Brown, "She's A Portrait of Zealotry in Plastic Shoes," Washington Post, November 13, 1983, p. B10.

"To those people who say, `My father is alive because of animal experimentation,' I say `Yeah, well, good for you. This dog died so your father could live.' Sorry, but I am just not behind that kind of trade off." Bill Maher, PETA celebrity spokesman

"Even if animal tests produced a cure [for AIDS], 'we'd be against it.'" --Ingrid Newkirk, national director, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PeTA), as quoted in Fred Barnes, "Politics," Vogue, September 1989, p. 542.

"Until your daddy learns that it's not "fun' to kill, keep your doggies and kitties away from him. He's so hooked on killing defenseless animals that they could be next!'' PETA flyer quoted in
the Asbury Park Press, September 23, 2005

I would like to believe that you became associated with PETA through ignorance of their real motives. You are obviously a talented, educated person and a sincere lover of dogs. But you aren't doing the species any kindness by promoting PETA or allowing them to self-promote through your book.

Wishing you all the best...
Sharyn

And now, the response from the author:

From: Alana Stevenson

Date: Jan 23, 2009 9:43 AM
Subject: Re: Your book
To: Sharyn Hutchens

Wow, no offense. But *you're* nuts.

I have a MS in bio. I have been vegan for the past 20 years. I volunteer at a shelter and all my animals are rescues. I read the paras. and they are right on. What could you possibly have against them unless 1) you are breeding animals and selling their babies to make a profit and 2) you promote the buying and selling of animals, which is just plain wrong.

There are many "pet" lovers and "dog" lovers yada yada.  There aren't many people who give them responsible homes, spay and neuter them etc.

What Ingrid Newkirk believes in is what I believe in...we've have bought and sold and bred animals as slaves, which they are, just look at any dog being yanked around on a choke chain, pinch collar, shock collar or slammed in a cage against their will. We do not respect them. They are here for our purpose. But since there are so many, the animals cannot survive on their own, they need good homes. My cats certainly can't live on the street, nor can dogs. So Ingrid supports rescue and adoption.  Peta is against breeding and selling (hence "manufacturing") ...which is basically using them as products for our needs "pets." This is why animals are considered property, because people can buy and sell them in stores and make a profit. The majority of dog and cat owners shouldn't be allowed to have dogs and cats.  As many are pretty poor in their behaviors to animals, and those are the good ones. Breeders by the way are the worst and give out some of the worst information.

It's interesting how few people who are involved with animal shelters dislike Peta. It is always the breeders and these people who seem to profess a love for animals, then feel everyone has a right to own one and buy and sell them. That is why animals are property. That is why there are few serious penalties for animal abusers. That is why there is no licensing or really good mandatory national certification credentials for animal behaviorists and trainers. Animals are property.

Somebody professing to love animals and want dogs as pets and then forces dogs to mate, to sell their babies for money, is laughable. But unfortunately too common. If you thought of doing this to a person, people would be outraged.

Lastly, it floors me that anti-peta people, getting a lot of their information from an organization that is pro-hunting, trapping, breeding, meat-eating... will not read information or learn because somebody who they dislike likes my book. So that means if Bin Laden liked my book, yet my Jewish father also liked my book that one negates the other?

I'm sorry but Peta does not nearly kill as many animals as breeders. In addition, I have known Peta from their start as 2 activists with the Silver Spring Monkeys. Peta singlehandedly, by a long shot, has done more for animals in this country...then most of the national organizations combined.  And making me read quotes from Peta, that to me, sound great, as if I'd be in horror, is laughable. I've known about Peta and their existence about in the early 80's when they were just beginning.

I've read Animal Liberation by Dr. Singer and Free the Animals by Ingrid Newkirk.  In fact, it is because of the Animal Liberation Front and Peta that Dr. Jane Goodall became vegetarian and an advocate and activist for primates as opposed to just studying them. Dr. Jane Goodall is vegan, opposed to animal experimentation and I'd bet you 100% into animal rescue and anti-the buying and selling of animals. Most enlightened, educated people are. Including Dr. Michael Fox, among others.

I'm vegan, are you? I believe in adoption and spay/neuter, do you?  Obviously, not as you believe in breeding and make money from it. I believe that pet shops are disgusting and should be illegal and people shouldn't buy and sell animals, that is why animals are considered property and why anybody can do anything to an animal and essentially get away with it. I think breeders are part of this horrendous pet overpopulation problem and if you have ever been in the killing fields of shelters because of the surplus, you would see people's disdain for breeders (those who are in rescue and advocacy).

Have you actually seen a kill shelter in action my dear?  Have you seen animals thrown in gas chambers by the hundreds? Peta has excellent footage of all this stuff, which you are more than welcome to look at, and the people who work there (Peta) have seen a hell of a lot more than you and that is why they believe what they do. They video tape and watch first hand animals skinned alive for their fur.

As far as that goes, I am not affiliated with Peta nor does peta get money from me, though they do buy my book wholesale and sell it, as do other places and I think that is fantastic. The way we treat dogs and cats *is* an animal rights issue.

People who keep their dogs on chokes need to be educated.  And I am pro-spay neuter/adoption and pro-rescue/adoption from shelters. I am extremely educated and I find the people who are anti-peta and probreeding, "pet" owning, we need to buy and sell mentality, but profess to love animals, really hypocritical and ignorant or shallow. They are part of the problem, not the solution. And they are no different then anyone else's mentality over the years who want their cake and want to eat it too without thinking of the consequences. I can hunt, it's a free country. It's my kid, I can do what I want. We all have the right to carry guns. We all have the right to breed and sell animals. We all may have the 'right.' But it is *not* right.

I am actually happy you don't want to buy my book. I find the ignorant like to stay ignorant.

Have a Happy Day.
Alana Stevenson, MS, CDBC, CSAMT
Dog Behavior Specialist
Cat Behavior Specialist
Dog Trainer

***********************************************************************

And I find those that are meat-protein deprived are so far removed from the real world that we live in that perhaps they would be happiest secluded from normal society, since we are nothing but "ignorant animal abusers"...Anybody know an island for sale super cheap? 

This one just in:  ANOTHER email from the author...

From: Alana Stevenson

Date: Jan 23, 2009 11:39 PM
Subject: your harassing emails

You know, I really wish you would fight amongst yourselves or do something productive and leave me alone. I am tired of these harassment emails from your lists and your forwards. Again, I am not going to not sell my book to Peta. I like a lot of what Peta does, always have and I am happy the organization likes the book.

I do know that I get hate mail from breeders and that all these people profess to getting information from the "Center for Consumer Freedom." CCF is a fraudalent group. All this "controversy" has been going on for years and is not new to me.

Here is information for YOU.  http://pcrm.org/news/release080708.html  (note from The Endangered Owner:  This link is to the PHONY PeTA created group, Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, which will grant membership to ANYONE, no M.D. required!)

You found my emails insulting?? I am tired of being sent an onslaught of insulting emails over and over again because Peta likes my book, by people who profess to love animals, and I disagree with many of their views.

Have any of you watched animals being slaughtered for food?

Have any of you watched animals being stabbed in the heart by shelters, because animals are bred, and bred, and bred, and bred, and bred, and bred, and bred, because somebody likes the breed and everybody feels they should be entitled to have a pet?

I could send you just as many links from many organizations, that are far more reputable and have done a lot more for animals by miles. I am surprised you feel I have so much power, attacking me relentlessly.

Here are some people who support activism, are you going to attack them?  (note:  she listed many links to myspace pages, which I have removed.)

Or about watching undercover footage of:

There are many live video clips of animals being tortured and slaughtered and only Peta, and now fortunately HSUS, has done anything to stop it. http://www.petatv.com/

You're upset with my email?? Yet, somehow I am being slammed over and over again by people professing to love animals because peta supports my book?  

Why don't you harass Cesar Milan for alpha rolling dogs and jabbing them in the ribs, or the president of the March of Dimes, a corrupt organization that does essentially nothing for humans. Their childhood "spokesperson" who is handicapped is now an animal rights activist, and has been for over 25 years. Jane Goodall, vegan. Michael J. Fox, vegan. I have been involved in advocacy for over 25 years. I don't need to be harassed by people who are promoting forwards from CCF.

And it's just like people promoting CCF who would tell people to stay clear of my book when they've never read it.

If you continue to email me I will simply delete your emails, and yes get annoyed.

I will continue to do what I do, promote my book and the humane treatment of dogs. And it is just like people, claiming they love dogs so much, who would try to block a book so much or tell people to stay clear of it when it is all about their humane treatment and training.
Alana Stevenson, MS, CDBC, CSAMT
********************************

It's this simple, when you choose to side with the lunatic fringe Animal Rights groups and believe what they believe, YOU will hear from us.  When someone OPENLY allows an endorsement from a terrorist group on their book, perhaps it's time to find new friends?  Or move to that island far, far away.....

Don't Drink The Kool-Aid: Lawmakers

The fight for our rights as pet owners and breeders continues on a daily basis.  Every day well-intentioned lawmakers in cities and states across the country pass or consider passing BSL (breed specific legislation), MSN (mandatory spay/neuter), pet limit laws, and other anti-pet/anti-owner laws. 

Just yesterday, Riverside County, CA, Board of Supervisiors passed a "3 Strikes Then the Pet Gets Fixed" ordinance, which states "that cats and dogs caught running loose more than three times in the county be spayed or neutered — regardless of a pet owner's wishes."   Sorry, but this is NOT the way to solve a stray dog problem nor is it the answer to lowering shelter intakes.  Enforcing current leash laws/dogs roaming at large laws is the answer.  Offering free or low cost spay/neuter clinics, along with EDUCATING and HELPING people solve dog behavior issues and working on owner retention, rather than surrendering the animal to a shelter, is a better solution.

Animal Rights advocates along with animal control and shelter workers sang the same tune we have heard before:  "we don't want to KILL the animals..." (But yet, they do it anyway) Rather than  putting policies/practices in place that actually REDUCE intakes and REDUCE killing, the blame for the KILLING is placed, as usual, on the public. 

Dog owners and breeders were also on hand to speak, stating:

 “I want the freedom to make my own medical decisions about my dog and not have to worry about animal control coming to my house,” Mary Bradley said.  

  And...Susan Scholar told the board that pet sterilization ordinances in other states and Los Angeles had not proved successful, resulting in revenue declines as fewer people register their pets.

“History shows that mandatory spay/neuter laws are not wise,” Scholar said.

Perhaps the Board of Supervisors should refresh their memories on a little thing called the Constitution and Bill of Rights rather than drinking more of the Animal Rightists poison kool-aid.  Maybe someone out there should send a copy of Nathan Winograd's book, "Redemption", to the shelter workers and the Board.

Interview: My Dog My Choice.com Taking a Stand Against MSN

Since I started this blog, I have come in contact with some really great people and learned about new grassroots organizations/groups all over the country.  A question I get frequently is:  "How/where can all dog owners and breeders unite?  Is there a particular group? " 

My answer to that question is this:  When I talk about untiy, it is in the sense of coming together for a common goal:  To dispel the myths put forth by the Animal Rights groups and to preserve our rights to breed and own animals now and in the future.  We all must learn to work together; breeders, pet owners, veterinarians, farmers, kennel clubs, everyone who loves animals and wants to make sure that the Animal Rights groups do not end up taking away our choices through Mandatory Spay/Neuter Laws (MSN), Breed Specific Legislation (BSL), breeder permits, and other restrictive types of legislation.
(I will post at another time my personal choice among the bigger groups.)

There are many fine groups out there fighting for the rights of pet owners and breeders.  Some groups have the clout at all levels of government, with paid lobbyists.  Others, like "My Dog My Choice" are getting their feet wet in grassroots level activism by educating the public and welcoming ALL who want to join the fight for our rights.  I asked for an interview so that it would give them some much needed exposure...and hopefully inspire others to follow their lead.  Here it is, from one of the members:

My Dog My Choice
By:  Margaret Byrd

My Dog My Choice began when some dog lovers became alarmed by the number of cities all over the US facing mandatory spay neuter legislation. It was especially disturbing as many locations were in out of the way places - not just in big cities on the West coast.  I think at that point it finally slapped us in the face that this wasn't just isolated “nut job stuff” but rather an organized attempt to end our rights of animal use and ownership.  Even more distressing it was successful in some areas.  We realized these things were possible because animal rights individuals had worked on long term goals for decades like groundhogs creating layers of tunnels set up to collapse. 

 During one of our doggie forum conversations, someone said we should try to develop a group to create advertising to counter the advertising and misinformation being promoted by animal rights individuals.  We needed to start giving responsible breeders a voice.  We needed billboards and magazine articles.  Folks turned and said, “Ideas are great, but action is greater. Let’s do it!”  At first a handful of folks participated and our web site was "Responsible Breeders of the US" .  We tried to explain what breeders were doing that was right.

 We found there was resistance because the term “breeder" limited our appeal.  Even folks that bred a few hunting dogs didn't see themselves as "breeders" oddly enough.  We began to realize we'd all been drinking the Kool-Aide and had separated ourselves from the concept of being "breeders".  We were speaking the language created by animal rights to divide and conquer. It had filtered into the dog community and even poisoned the views of our fellow dog lovers! So we brain stormed and morphed into "My Dog My Choice" . My Dog My Choice has enjoyed a wider appeal.


As a group, our objective is to be a positive voice for animal owners and breeders.  We help write letters when asked by other groups.  We share our ideas, advertising material and articles for use by other areas under attack.  We try to stay abreast of current threats to let others know of them via forums and networking emails.  We try to get more involved in our own areas helping to educate our lawmakers.  But our primary objective is to take back our culture with words and advertising to counter the inroads created by the animal rights agenda.


We are working on ideas to provide education to schools via an art & photography contest for older students and some coloring books to give to grade school students that explain the animal human bond.  I wish to see pages in the coloring book on milk cows and how the farmers care for them.  Pages on the chicken farmers, hunters, dog breeders etc.  Each page or series of pages will show what is good and right about these individuals and their care of their animals.  This may be as close as many children will ever get to farm animals and animal husbandry.


For too long we've let animal rights individuals define us and ignored them, but now we're mad as hell and we're not going to take it any more.  When anyone, anywhere is victimized because of their love of animals we are all victimized. Now is the time to take back the culture with advertising and the written word.  We need to make animal rights agendas “like drunk driving and smoking" – politically incorrect - just as they've tried to do with us.  They have hijacked our culture and created the language that undermines our rights. We must find our own voices before it is too late.  If the only ones speaking are animal rights individuals, they will be the only ones heard.


Our true location is on the Internet.  We do not have a single location that houses all our efforts.  We utilize a forum to archive our activities and to post information.  Important calls to action go out as emails.  No one member is more important than any other member.  We are all dedicated volunteers.  We ask new members to give a short bio so we know something about their interests as we grow in numbers.  We send them an email if they come from PayPal so we can be sure the email provided isn't an old one that no longer works.  If anyone has joined and has not gotten confirmation from us they need to send an email to info@mydogmychoice.com so we can confirm your email address.


Our group exists all over the US from one end of the country to the other.  We have members in many different cities and states.  We also have a few contacts in other countries that fight against animal rights’ agendas.

We believe that “A journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step”. Slowly we gather additional members and financial support. We will never give up. We will never give in. And failure is not an option.


In my opinion, pet owners don't understand that mandatory spay neuter laws are targeting them.  They see it as taking care of "bad breeders", or "irresponsible owners", or "puppy mills".  They see it as a "solution to over population" because this is what they are being told.  Even some of my intelligent dog loving friends fail to see the probable outcomes of these kinds of laws.  They don't understand that THEY and THEIR DOGS are in the cross hairs.  Even groups fighting the good fight against animal activism sometimes seem to be spinning their wheels because they are preaching to the choir.  That won't take the culture back.  Only education, publicity and articles can begin to turn the tide. It has to be stuff that gets out to the John Q. Public and it has to be unremitting. We need film, TV, press, newspapers. And we can get them on a shoe string if we pool our talents and brainstorm.

 I was taught that if you want to get someone to do what you want them to do; you have to tell them why it is TO THEIR ADVANTAGE to do what you want them to do.  What that means to me, in this context, is that in order to explain these destructive agendas to the average dog owner we must educate them.  We have to make them aware that it is their animals that are threatened.  It is their fourth and fifth amendment rights that are under the gun.

 I have surfed any number of animal rights sites.  It is very sobering when they are so bold they post their agendas in black and white unvarnished where anyone can see it. 

 Many of the My Dog My Choice group are part of a National Breed club and we have published notices in the breed magazine as well as articles.  We bought space in the National Trial flyer.  We have posted signs at different trials.  We have not contacted all AKC groups except we post on one of the AKC chat rooms.  Some of our members are AKC members and some are vendors that attend AKC shows.  They take information when they go to these events.  We ripple out into our community where ever we are located and in whatever venue we participate. We talk to our friends and try to get them to understand. And if at first we don’t succeed, we try, try again.

 We receive legislative alerts from as many groups as possible and join as many groups working against animal rights agendas as funds allow.  We get the AKC alerts.  As far as we're concerned there is no AKC, UKC, CKC, XYZ registries, puppy mills or back yard breeders, there are only animal owners and lovers that must bridge the gap between our differences to unite in this effort to defeat the threat to our animals. 

 For over 100 years my breed of choice has been handed down from breeder to breeder and I won't let it be thrown away on my watch.  Since man came out of caves and hunted with wolves as a mutual survival strategy, animals that displayed a talent have been bred for a function.  Those functions developed into breeds.  Under mandatory spay neuter legislation animals bred for a function would become illegal.  No new breeds would ever be developed.  The diversity of the genetics and the talents of thousands of years of development in dogs would be lost forever - "one generation and out".  Gene pools would narrow as folks gave up because of increased costs and loss of privacy. Then animal rights would meet the demand for companion animals by selling mixed breed animals to folks wanting a companion.  Companion animals would become so expensive that many poorer people would never know the joy of one in their life.  When that happens, the number of animal owners would drop tremendously.  As each group is eliminated, that leaves one less group, one less person, to help preserve and protect our companions.  We are uniquely posed to take back our culture while the numbers of animal lovers are still large but we can not falter. In order to win we must lose the language that divides us and find the language that unites us for the love of our animals. Join us. Together we can find the way.