The Animal Welfare Act, written in 1966, set standards to protect animals bred for commercial sale and research. Pet stores were exempt from inspections with the assumption that store visitors could see and determine whether the animals were healthy.
Times have changed since 1966. The Internet has allowed puppy mills and other questionable breeders to sell animals without submitting to an inspection of their breeding facilities. On Thursday, May 10, 2012, the USDA proposed a change that would close that loophole: all breeders who sell pets via the phone, mail or Internet would have to open their doors to the public or obtain a license and submit to inspections by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Puppy mill breeders often deny dogs veterinary care and keep them in filthy, cramped cages with hard wire bottoms. Please sign the petition to support the USDA's proposal and put an end to cruel pet breeding practices.
To: The United States Department of Agriculture
We, the undersigned, are writing to support your May 10, 2012 decision to change the Animal Welfare Act of 1966. We agree that the current act is outdated, and are relieved that you are taking measures to regulate breeders who sell pets over the Internet, mail and phone.
Thank you for taking action against puppy mills and other questionable pet breeders. We believe that the change to the Animal Welfare Act will successfully prevent future abuse against companion animals.
