Though dyeing chicks (and rabbits) for Easter has become somewhat of a tradition in parts of the United States, it has been illegal in about half the states and several municipalities. Florida had been one of those states that had laws against this practice.
Florida has now overturned this 45 year old ban on dyeing animals. Don Anthony of the Animal Rights Foundation of Florida stated, “Humane Societies are overflowing with these animals after Easter ever year. This law has protected thousands of animals from neglect and abuse.”
According to the Globe and Mail the two most popular ways to dye the chicks are by injecting color dye into the eggs and by spraying the baby chicks. The color usually lasts until the baby chicks shed their fluff and grow their feathers.
People get these animals as holiday ‘gifts’, not thinking long term that the color will disappear as the feathers grow in and then they are left with full grown chickens to care for and immediately want to dump the birds.
According to sources, the overturning of the ban on dyeing animals came about at the request of a dog groomer who wanted to enter contests where people elaborately sculpture and color their pets.
This bill goes into effect on July 1, 2012. Contact the governor and ask him to repeal his decision!
The full text and history of the bill is here http://flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2012/1197
