It isn’t every day that we hear about people doing amazing things for the community, but Tia Torres, director of the Villalobos Rescue Center in Southern California, definitely deserves a closer look. Tia’s has started a program where she dedicates her time to stopping the cycle of violence by creating a partnership between ex-convicts and abused dogs. Tia is restoring hope and changing the image of both pit bulls and ex-cons through this successful program.

Here is the story, borrowed from Guideposts:

“I looked at all the caged animals—the cast-offs of human society. I saw in their eyes love and hope, fear and dread, sadness and betrayal. And I was angry.
“God,” I said, “this is terrible! Why don’t you do something?”
God was silent for a moment and then He spoke softly.
“I have done something…I created you.”
—Jim Willis, author of The Animal’s Savior and How Could You?

Tia Torres knows what it’s like to be unwanted. Coming from a broken home, as a child she longed for a forever family. As a young teenager, Tia created her own family by helping people and animals who were lonely, lost and in need.

Tia Torres’s long journey has led her to become the director of the VillaLobos Rescue Center in Southern California. With her “Underdawgs” program, Torres opens the gates of hope to ex-convicts and pit bulls alike. She is dedicated to stopping the cycle of violence that happens in angry youths by creating a partnership between these guys and abused dogs.

Torres believes that these men and dogs understand each other. Both know what it’s like to be locked up; both know the feeling of being an outsider in society. The parolees who come to work for her have thus far known only crime as their mode of survival.

The ex-cons do everything for the pit bulls: feeding, walking, training, caring for the grounds, cleaning their kennels. What they get in return is unconditional love, loyalty and a sense of purpose, all of which add to their self-esteem, strengthening their resolve and peeling away the layers of anger. What’s more, the cost of keeping a man incarcerated in California is $40,00 a year, while it costs a mere $16,000 a year to employ the same man in her organization.

Thank you PetFinder.com, the amazing BlogPaws sponsor and esteemed national organization, for this information.

Before you read this however, I really want to call out PetFinder for being so damn cool.  YOU CAN FIND ANY ANIMAL YOU WANT IN ANY AREA YOU WANT. EVEN PUREBREEDS. YES!

PetFinder.com isn’t just for finding an animal however… there’s all kinds of fun stuff to do and LOADS of information. For example, read about:

-what to do before, during  and after an adoption

- keep up on pet news, plus pet care, nutrition, grooming, etc

- find animal welfare groups in any area

- read through the pet classifieds

- watch cool, funny and/or informative videos

- talk to others in the forum

- shop around in the pet store

- read the killer pets blog (we’re talkin’ the best of the best here)

- join PetFinder on Facebook, iPhone, YouTube, Twitter and MySpace

- read about the INSANELY GENEROUS PetFinder Foundation, which is comparable to the beloved PetSmart Charities

Bascially:

Ten SIMPLE Ways to Use Social Media to Help Homeless Pets

Petfinder’s entire and central mission is to help adoptable pets. They list the animals of over 13,500 rescues!! And in the 14 years since its founding, they’ve helped more than a whopping 15 MILLION pets find homes. According to Petfinder: “We could never have done it alone. We rely on people like you — devoted social media enthusiasts with a passion for pets — to help us spread the word.”

Not convinced you can make a difference? You’d be surprised…

Check out these quick and easy ways you can be the change for pets every day!

1. Share an adoptable pet or a Petfinder pet adoption Happy Tail on your blog, Facebook page or Twitter page. Find pets near you at Petfinder.com (just click) to feature, and read the most heart-warming stories, or, “Happy Tails” as we advocates call them, right here (just click again).

2. Tweet an adoptable pet for #TweetAPetTues and help us start a Twitter adoptable pet trend (I must say this is ALR EADY a BIG trend and in full swing)!

3. Hold a virtual fundraiser or toy drive for your local shelter. For fundraisers, simply have the rescue group sign up with www.firstgiving.com and watch as the donations go directly to the animals in need.

4. Contact your local shelter or rescue group (you can search for groups near you on PetFinder) and ask if they have a donation Wish List or flyer you can post for them. (FYI – EVERY rescue shelter Ive ever worked/volunteered for has had quite a large list and their needs run the gamut from clean towels to cat litter to dog food to leashes and food bowls. Some even request administrative supplies!) Regardless, any in-kind giving helps.

5. Sign up to be a foster parent or shelter volunteer, then Tweet, ReTweet and post about it everywhere: your blog, Facebook, MySpace, forums, and tell everyone how much fun it was and how rewarding it is. Also – it IS considered community service by the way for you teens out there…

6. Make featured adoptable pets appear on your home page! Check out our easy-to-use widgets here.

7. Take a video of your adopted pet and post it to YouTube with a shout out to the rescue where you found him.

8. Let visitors search for adoptable pets right on your site with a Customizable Pet List Scroller and Search Widgets

9. Share or link to the common and quite appropriate post: “SHOOTING DOWN COMMON MYTHS ABOUT PET ADOPTION.”

10. Tweet or share: “101 Reasons to Adopt,” which is like the pet rescuer’s Bible pretty much.

ATTN TO: The 824,810 signers of “Tell Petland to STOP Selling Puppies!”

I posted about this in June and a few people got really fired up; then the more people found out about the stores that bought from puppy mills the real backlash began.

Thanks to the help of the Humane Society you can. You can, even if you don’t live there.

Petland Protesters Freezing Their Butts Off For the Cause...!

The pathetic USDA gave itself a failing grade in terms of keeping up with mills back in April (“USDA Gives Itself a Failing Grade in Puppy Mill Enforcement”) – Change.Org Animals

An internal audit (pdf) by the USDA’s Inspector General’s office found serious problems with the USDA departmentresponsible for keeping breeders in compliance with the Animal Welfare Act.

All in all, it’s a pretty sorry situation. At a time when puppy mills are finally receiving at least a small amount of mainstream attention, the folks in charge of punishing animal abusers prefer namby-pamby “cooperation” over punishment, and when they have to punish, they usually go for the lightest possible penalty.

Among the findings:

• The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service’s Animal Care Division (the folks who are actually supposed to inspect dog breeders) “was ineffective in achieving dealer compliance with AWA and regulations.”
• The Animal Care Division “chose to take little or no enforcement action against most violators,” instead choosing to take the less-punitive route of “education and cooperation.”
• Inspectors “did not correctly report all repeat or direct violations (those that are generally more serious and affect the animals’ health). In addition, some inspectors did not always adequately describe violations in their inspection reports or support violations with photos.”
• What about the puppy mill cases where the inspectors actually bothered to report and document abuse? Not such good news there either. Apparently, “the agency continued to assess minimal penalties that did not deter violators.”
  

  CRAMMED, COLD Puppy Mill in MO

• And speaking of not deterring violators, “Typically, AC does not take enforcement action against first-time violators, even if the inspector identifies a direct violation (i.e., one that hasa high potential for adversely affecting the health of an animal).”

Rescued Rare Breed Puppy

Let’s talk about the response from Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. As was the case with the report on livestock inspections in February, he claims that it didn’t happen on his watch. He’s correct, by the way; this report covers the time period stretching from October of 2005 through September of 2008.

In short, it wasn’t his fault but it’s his problem now. The question is, will Vilsack actually change anything? He’s committed to “reinforce [USDA's] efforts under its animal welfare responsibilities, including tougher penalties for repeat offenders and greater consistent action to strongly enforce the law.”

Vilsack can talk the talk. He’s got legions of bright young governmental PR people to help him do that. But actually cleaning up USDA’s reprehensible record on animal welfare is going to take more than rhetoric and hand-wringing.

Twice this year, Vilsack’s department has been called out in public for lax enforcement of some very important laws. Twice this year, he’s eaten his humble pie and pledged reform. He’s right in pointing out that he didn’t cause these problems, but it’s time to stop talking and start fixing.

Some members of Congress get that, which is why Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and David Vitter (R-LA) are introducing the PUPS (Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety Act), which updates and strengthens parts of the Animal Welfare Act. You can do your part as well, by calling on your Senators to support the PUPS Act. The Animal Law Coalition has a good summary of the proposed bill here.

Tell Congress to Crack Down on Puppy Mills

Stand up for puppies – help us pass the PUPS Act

In the wake of an eye-opening audit showing serious flaws in investigation and enforcement of animal cruelty at puppy mills, Senators Dick Durbin and David Vitter are introducing the H.R.6949 PUPS (Puppy Uniform Protection and Safety Act).

This bill strengthens the existing Animal Welfare Act and helps the US Department of Agriculture crack down on unscrupulous breeders who put profit ahead of animal protection.

You may have heard about the campaign to vote YES on Proposition B, the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act, which will help thousands of dogs languishing in puppy mills all across Missouri. It’ll amend the Animal Welfare Act to provide further protection for puppies.

*** Now we need YOU to help us help them!***

Get started here | View Petition | Ask Friends to Sign

You can help by signing up to participate in our virtual dog walk, The Walk for Pups. Create your page and share it with your friends and family on Facebook.

For two weeks, animal lovers across the nation will Walk for Pups to help stop puppy mill abuses in Missouri. Will you join us — and help thousands of dogs without ever leaving your own neighborhood (or even your own home)? When you join us on this “virtual” walk, you’ll support the campaign to pass Proposition B, a measure to establish common sense standards for the care of dogs in Missouri dog breeding facilities.

Infamous Amish Country Puppy Mill Block Pre-Auction: Disgustingt works: For 2 weeks in October, you can pledge to walk two miles (in your own neighborhood, and with or without a dog), and raise $200 from friends and family to support 200,000 breeding dogs in Missouri.

Here’s how it works:

Simply create your own Walk for Pups page, set a goal to raise $200 (or any other amount) to help save dogs, and invite your friends and family to help you reach your goal. And don’t forget to add a picture of your dog (or any pet) to your page.

When you create your page, we’ll send you an official Walk for Pups bandana for your pet!

In addition to helping save thousands of dogs across Missouri, you’ll have the opportunity to win one of our Walk for Pups prizes. Everyone who reaches their $200 goal will receive a special edition hoodie.

♥♥♥♥♥ Plus, prizes will be given for reaching $500, $1,000, and grand prizes for the Top Fundraiser and the Best Walk for Pups Photo. ♥♥♥♥♥

Check out our full list of prizes here.

Still have questions?

Visit our FAQ page.

Everyone who creates a page receives a FREE dog bandana plus the chance to win a ton of other cool prizes, like a special edition hoodie, a shopping spree at our online store, and more!

♦Pieces of post taken from different writers on CHANGE.org, my own posts, HSUS and Martin Matheny.

Other Puppy Mill and Dog Welfare News & Events

(stay tuned next week when we tackle dog auctions!)

October 20, 2010 — Customers File Suit Against Notorious Missouri Puppy Mill For Selling Sick and Dying Dogs

• 

  A group of consumers filed suit in the Randolph County Circuit Court against notorious Missouri puppy mill S & S Family Puppies for selling consumers sick and dying puppies.

October 18, 2010– Former Missouri Senator and Statesman Jack Danforth Endorses Prop B to Prevent Puppy Mill  Cruelty in Missouri

• 

  The coalition of individuals and animal welfare organizations supporting Proposition B, the statewide ballot measure to stop puppy mill cruelty, is pleased to announce that former U.S. Senator Jack Danforth has endorsed the measure.

October 18, 2010– California Consumers Help Drive Cruel Missouri Puppy Mill Industry

• 

  Thousands of puppies shipped from Show-Me State to Golden State during 2009, including dozens from some of the worst puppy mills in Missouri.

October 12, 2010 — Jackson County Endorses Prop B to Prevent Puppy Mill Cruelty in Missouri

• 

  The coalition supporting Prop B, the Missouri ballot measure to stop puppy mill cruelty, applauds the Jackson County legislature for unanimously approving a resolution supporting passage of Proposition B.

More News & Events »

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Ban Puppy Mills in Ohio

Sign Petition to Ban Puppy Mills in Ohio FOR GOOD

Now is really time for me to launch my Be The Change Campaign, thank you very much Caroline, Tom and Yvonne at BlogPaws (and Romeo). Not only am I raising a ton of money for IAMS, but I’m launching a personal crusade to ban dog auctions and Amish puppy mills in Ohio.

Then I’ll be petitioning for felony punishments for animal abusers as it’s pretty sick that last week a guy killed a kitten by beating it with a bat to show off to his 13-yr-old girlfriend — HE GOT GROUNDED and Anger Mgmt.

It’s time Bad Breeders and Amish Country Millers STOPPED Abusing Animals, Selling and Buying at Dog Auctions, and Profiting Off Severe Animal Abuse and Neglect. PETLAND Needs to GET with the Times Too.

This should be illegal; and Ohio is so archaic in animal treatment, we are one of only FOUR STATES WHERE ANIMAL ABUSE IS STILL A LOW MISDEMEANOR.

Petition Targeting: The Governor of OH, The OH State Senate, and The OH State House

Petition Author, Creator: Jaime Lynn Smith

There are over 100,000 dogs, stud males, puppies and continually pregnant female dogs living in cramped metal cages right now in central and parts of southern and western Ohio. These dogs do not know what the inside of a house feels like. They’ve never been out of their cages.

In the Happy Tails Books publication of “Dog Blessed; Puppy Mill Survivor Stories” you can read true stories of puppy mill owners’ disdain, hatred, annoyance, lack of compassion and piss poor attitudes towards dogs (they’re no better than dog fighters or rapists), and see how the rescued dogs healed. You also hear sad stories of millers drowning or starving dogs so they don’t waste a bullet. Then there’s the story of the puppy mill dog Ruby my sister and I tried to save three years ago.

My  sister Ash never got over it and awhile back she started working with Ohio Basset Rescue. We saved a Basset Hound former puppy mill stud (he was used for breeding for days on end). He was terrified of everything and took over 6 months to rehabilitate.

• He wouldn’t walk on a leash
  

  ohio amish mill dog lost 8 teeth after rescue, and a leg

• let us put a collar on
• didn’t know what a bone or biscuit or toy or stuck was
• always had his tail between his legs
• whined and cowered like he’d be beat at loud noises
• he wouldn’t walk up the stairs
• didn’t know what dinnertime was
• he had no clue how to eat out of a dog dish.
• He followed us everywhere and was timid and terrified
• He liked to be alone and hidden behind the shed in the backyard

IT WAS HEART BREAKING.   Don’t let this happen to another dog.

Puppy mill dogs are often sold at dog auctions, which IS on the November ballot this year for eradication. These dog auctions severly perpetuate the puppy mill problem by putting loads of money intothe hands of the cruel Amish people whostatistically raise OVER 80 percent of the puppy mill farms in Ohio.

This must be stopped. Please sign the petition so we can get an issue on the ballot in November of 2012.

deplorable indoor miil in amish country ohio

Yes, we have lots of time, but we’re going to need at least 750,000 signatures.

A “puppy mill” is a facility that continuously breeds female dogs and then houses the females and their puppies in deplorable conditions. Inadequate food, water, sanitation, year-round exposure to the elements and dilapidated housing are commonplace.

As everyone re-convenes for a new session of legislation, I want to talk with you about an issue that is very important to me as a tax-payer and citizen of Ohio.                   

a sick mill pup we "borrowed" undercover & couldn't save...

I don’t know how familiar you are with Puppy Mills, but our state has become fertile ground for the “commercial pet breeding industry” because we do not have any laws or regulations to govern these facilities.

We have one USDA rep for every, like, 55 mills and “hobby breeders” and they are so lax on rules that they get paid for letting fines rest and be forgotten if they get paid in alcohol and gas money et al I’d believe.

Furthermore, we do not have enough manpower at the USDA to actually enforce the laws that are broken every day by these heartless criminals who neglect and often abuse the animals. An internal audit by the USDA’s Inspector General’s office found serious problems with the USDA department responsible for keeping breeders in compliance with the Animal Welfare Act.

Tell Petland to Stop Selling Live Animals and Start Supporting Rescue

Puppy mills are the epitome of cruelty to animals. Do we want Ohio to be associated with that? Between our fantastic colleges and universities, our top-of-the-line healthcare systems, and our gorgeous seasons and miles upon miles of national parks, I think not.

malnourished and starved mill dog who soon after rescue passed:(

Milllers, particularly in Amish Country where it has been (undercover) reported that a whopping 80 percent of mills exist there, keep helpless, sick, dying, idle dogs in tiny chicken wire cages with barely any food or water, no veterinary care, and no human contact – except when they are yelled at to be quiet. Millers OVER-breed these animals until they cannot produce anymore, then they simply throw them away, let them loose to run and die in the frigid winter air, or suffer an even worse fate.

In a state founded on high morals and values, this is a absolute atrocity. Animals, at the very least, should be respected and cared for in a compassionate way. And of course they are not equal to humans, but they have no voice and furthermore, no choice.

While other states like Pennsylvania and Virginia are passing laws and increasing regulations to reform this dreadful puppy mill industry and to advocate animal welfare, Ohio’s SEVERELY outdated and inadequate statutes have not changed, so we have become an even bigger magnet for this cruelty. We have stores like Petland making a mockery out of 9 week old puppies when an employee thought it was funny to drown them.

Ohio needs laws NOW to stop this cruel, horrifying treatment.

Make Your Voice Heard!

Currently, Illinois is proposing legislation to help deter the puppy mill industry. It is called Chloe’s Bill, and, among other things, seeks to limit the number of unaltered dogs a breeder can own. According to Petside.com, the bill will:

Missouri is also looking to pass Prop B this November. Missouri has more puppy mills than any other state—and it’s very likely that a puppy from a Missouri mill is lying in a cage at a pet store near you, at this very moment. Proposition B will help these dogs by reforming Missouri’s puppy mills, but the measure won’t pass without your help.

A Veterinarian’s Prognosis For Stopping Puppy Mill Cruelty: Just last week the YesonPropB website posted an interview from A Humane Nation, Wayne Pacelle’s blog: Veterinarian Deanna Tolliver DVM, talks about why she thinks it’s such a good idea for voters in Missouri to support Prop B.

“There are 3,000 dog breeding facilities in Missouri that churn out hundreds of thousands of puppies a year as a cash crop for the pet trade. Too often, the dogs are kept in cruel and inhumane conditions, denied inadequate shelter, veterinary care, or any human kindness.”

From Deanna Tolliver, DVM:

“As a veterinarian, I took an oath to protect animal health and relieve animal suffering. Unfortunately, as a veterinarian in Missouri, I have witnessed the worst kind of suffering in dogs from puppy mills—rotten and infected teeth, mammary gland tumors, ear and skin diseases, overgrown toenails that curl into foot pads, and coats matted so heavily that the animals could barely walk. Most of these conditions result from years of neglect and could have been prevented or treated with proper veterinary care.”

“Prop B would require large, commercial breeding facilities to provide dogs with sufficient food and clean water; necessary veterinary care; adequate living space, shelter and exercise; and essential rest between breeding cycles. It would also prohibit the use of wire kennel flooring and stacked cages.

Let's Welcome All Mill Dogs to a New Life...

The measure would also limit the number of adult breeding dogs that facilities can keep to 50 (it does not apply to breeders with 10 or fewer intact female dogs). Since each female dog is capable of producing up to five or more puppies per litter, a breeder could still sell roughly 200 to 400 puppies a year, with a potential income exceeding $100,000—much greater than that of most families in Missouri.

The recent rescue of more than 100 dogs from two operations in Camden and Greene counties undoubtedly confirms that Missouri has an ongoing problem with many of its 3,000 mass puppy-production facilities. The Better Business Bureau, the USDA Office of the Inspector General and the Missouri state auditor all released recent reports detailing insufficient oversight of our puppy mill industry and the grave suffering it causes—both for the dogs and for their future families.”

dirty mill dog we couldnt save

Dozens of veterinarians from all parts of the state have endorsed the ballot measure.

At mills, dogs are crammed into small and filthy cages, denied veterinary care, exposed to extremes of heat and cold, and given no exercise or human affection.  These puppy mills are cruel and the way these dogs are treated is wrong.I surely hope that since we voted lawmakers into office that they take heed this winter, and at least discuss legislation to be introduced to stop the suffering of these innocent dogs.

And THANK GOD AND THE FATHER OF ALL ANIMALS for Mary O’Connor Shaver and all she’s personally doing to get Dog Auctions Banned on the November Ballot, all while running Columbus Top Dogs & BanOhioDogAuctions.com.

A paralyzed Papillion from years in a cramped cold cage

Please support any legislation of its kind, and please know you have my support if you’d like to help, more information, to volunteer or to lobby or help at petition events.

Let’s not allow Ohio to be the kind of state that follows — let us be the kind of state who LEADS! Let’s make changes to how we treat our animals TODAY.

SIGN THE PETITION TO BAN OHIO PUPPY MILLS NOW AND PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD.

Thank you for your time.

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** THANK YOU Penny Eims, Dog News Examiner for this HUGE breakthrough story: everyone go and Like/Share her article!

Missouri is home to the worst puppy mills in the nation. A recent report released by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), “Missouri’s Dirty Dozen”, includes the name of one such puppy mill that is shutting down its business.

Bonnie and Herman Schindler, owners of Mettoville Kennels, aka Teacher’s Pets, received a title of “dishonorable mention” by the HSUS.

- The good news is that these people will no longer be in the puppy mill business.

- The bad news is that they are auctioning off upwards of 800 dogs and puppies at the end of the month.

Totally Rehabilitated Mill Pit Bull

800 dogs and puppies that were not viewed as living creatures – instead, they were a means to a profitable end – livestock. Dogs that now are going to be sold off to the highest bidder.

The list of available dog breeds is extensive and includes the usual suspects -  German Shepherds, Maltese, Papillon, Lhasa Apso, Pomeranians, and more.

Rescuers are scrambling to make arrangements for these dogs. They are fearful that the dogs will be purchased by other puppy mills and that their lives will be a continuation of the past hell that they have had to endure.

The auction is scheduled to take place on Friday, October 29, starting at 9:00 am, and continuing on Saturday, October 30,  in Mexico, Missouri.

One local rescue, Act Now! Rescue in St. Louis, is gathering funds and foster homes so that they can attempt to secure as many dogs as possible at the auction. Other rescues are making

arrangements to arrive with volunteers and vans, including Mary O’Conner Shaver’s respected amd renowned

Let's Welcome All Mill Dogs to a New Life...

Columbus Top Dogs and Ban Ohio Dog Auctions from southern Ohio.

The common goal is to obtain as many dogs as possible before they fall into the hands of other breeders.

Everyone is in agreement – these dogs deserve to know a life of love. They deserve compassion.

If you are unfamiliar with the conditions frequently encountered at a puppy mill, please read the HSUS Dirty Dozen report. It graphically describes dog after dog, kept in filthy, deplorable conditions.

Dogs housed in wire cages that cut into feet…  Dogs kept outdoors in freezing temperatures without adequate shelter… Dogs suffering from filthy, matted coats…  Dogs brutally murdered when they were no longer useful.

The sad list goes on, and on, and on.

A Chip-In donation fund has been created for this massive rescue effort. Individuals interested in donating to this cause can click here. A Yahoo “Auction Dog Rescue” group has also been established.

** Individuals interested in learning more about how they can directly help the dogs can join the group.

The listing from the actual auction reads:

2 COMPLETE SELLOUTS!

2 FULL DAYS!
TEACHER’S PETS- Herman & Bonnie Schindler (573) 581-4300

CONRAD’S CUDDLY CANINES Lori Conrad (573) 784-9817
12736 AUDRAIN Rd 841, Mexico, MO. 65265

DATES OF SALE: FRIDAY, OCT. 29th & SATURDAY, OCT. 30th, 2010

STARTING TIME BOTH DAYS: 9:00 AM

LOCATION: MEXICO, MISSOURI

Rain or Shine! Sales will be under Tent! Concessions will be available!

Please share this article with others. Even if you are not able to directly help one of these abused dogs, you can help to educate people about the dirty background of puppy mills.

If you have ever purchased a puppy from a pet store, you have more than likely purchased from a puppy mill such as those that are listed in the HSUS report. Do not support these businesses – they are cruel, inhumane, and they contribute to the massive over-crowding at shelters throughout the nation.

Adopt your next companion – save a life.

About Columbus Top Dogs…

We support programs and services benefiting Ohio companion animals!

We love companion pets!

Since May 2005, we have proudly contributed over $109,000 in financial and in-kind donations to A.D.O.P.T. Pet Rescue, Almost Home Dog Rescue, Animal Outreach, Bright-Star German Shepherd Rescue, CANTER Ohio, Capital Area Humane Society, Cat Welfare Association, Central Ohio Greyhound Rescue, Central Ohio Sheltie Rescue, Citizens for Humane Action Animal Shelter, Columbus Dog Connection, Columbus Pilot Dogs, Colony Cats, Cozy Cat Cottage, DogSOS, Humane Society of Delaware County, Forgotten 4-Paws, Friends of Alum Creek Dog Park, Friends for Life Animal Haven, Golden Endings, Happy Tails of Central Ohio, Helping Hooves, Knox County Humane Society, Measles Animal Haven, Meigs County Animal Shelter, Monrow Township Muttley’s 4-H Dog Club, Ohio Pug Rescue, Pet FBI, Pet Promise, Pooch Playground (Gahanna Dog Park), Powell PAWS, Second Chances Dalmatian Rescue, Stop the Suffering, Tender Loving Canine Rescue, Tri-State Collie Rescue, Union County Humane Society and Westies of Ohio Fundraisers.

• LETTER: Prop B provides common-sense standards, not extremism

  • Fri, 10/15/2010 – 14:59
  • Columbia Missourian

  Opponents of Proposition B, the Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act, always rely on the same false claims that it is an unnecessary law backed by so-called extremists (“J. KARL MILLER: Tasers and breeding laws aren’t broken, so no need to try and fix

• Missouri Puppy Mills

  • Tue, 10/12/2010 – 01:16
  • Santa Barbara Independent

  Prop B has Implications for the Entire Nation Article Tools Share Article Pet stores in Los Angeles, New York City, Miami, Seattle, and other major cities across the nation import their dogs from Missouri—a state known for their puppy mills. It’s

• Joe the Plumber plunges into Missouri puppy mills

  • Fri, 10/08/2010 – 00:48
  • KansasCity.com

  A grand conspiracy is afoot, and it starts right here in Missouri. So says none other than Joe The Plumber Wurzelbacher, John McCains improbable sidekick in the 2008 presidential campaign. Liking the limelight and desperately searching for a new gig, Joe

• Wayne Pacelle: Playing Politics with Puppy Mill Abuse

  • Fri, 10/08/2010 – 00:31
  • Huffington Post

  You can never find a plumber when you need one, it sometimes seems, but that hasn’t been a problem for the puppy mill crowd in Missouri. Joe the Plumber, who found his name repeated again and again by Barack Obama and John McCain during one of the 2008

• Playing Politics with Puppy Mill Abuse

  • Fri, 10/08/2010 – 00:30
  • Huffington Post

  You can never find a plumber when you need one, it sometimes seems, but that hasn’t been a problem for the puppy mill crowd in Missouri. Joe the Plumber, who found his name repeated again and again by Barack Obama and John McCain during one of the 2008

• Joe the Plumber, Tea Partiers Defend Missouri Puppy Mills

  • Wed, 10/06/2010 – 12:30
  • Yahoo! News

  WASHINGTON, DC Two years after coming to national attention during John McCain’s presidential bid, Joe “The Plumber” Wurzelbacher is keeping busy. His cause now isn’t tax policy, but puppy availability. Wurzelbacher has joined up with a Missouri-based

• Joe the Plumber, Tea Partiers Defend Missouri Puppy Mills (The Atlantic Wire)

  • Wed, 10/06/2010 – 11:01
  • Yahoo! News

  WASHINGTON, DC Two years after coming to national attention during John McCain’s presidential bid, Joe “The Plumber” Wurzelbacher is keeping busy. His cause now isn’t tax policy, but puppy availability. Wurzelbacher has joined up with a Missouri-based

• “Puppy mill” ballot measure advocates and opponents speak out

  • Tue, 10/05/2010 – 19:44
  • KWMU

  Adam Allington / St. Louis Public Radio (2010-10-05) Facility of Beverly Fields, B & B Kennel, of Galt Missouri. Fields is a MoFed PAC contributor and puppy mill operator with more than 150 dogs and puppies as of Oct 2009, according to the Humane Society

• More Than 100 Dogs Rescued Simultaneously From Two Missouri Puppy Mills Reinforce Urgent Need for Prop B

  • Mon, 09/27/2010 – 11:56
  • Media Newswire

  Barbara Schmitz, campaign manager for Missourians for the Protection of Dogs/ YES! on Prop B, issued the following statement in reaction to yesterday’s rescues of 116 dogs from two mass dog breeding operations located in Camden County and Greene County,

• Dog Advocates Ask State Officials to Investigate Potential Tax Fraud by Missouri Puppy Mills

  • Mon, 09/27/2010 – 11:56
  • Media Newswire

  A coalition of dog protection advocates has presented the Missouri Department of Revenue with evidence of potential tax fraud in Missouri’s puppy mill industry, and requested an industry-wide investigation into a possible tax-evasion scheme that could be

• More Than 100 Dogs Rescued Simultaneously From Two Missouri Puppy Mills Reinforce Urgent Need for Prop B (9/22/10)

  • Fri, 09/24/2010 – 01:39
  • Targeted News Service

  WASHINGTON, Sept. 22 — The Humane Society issued the following news release: Barbara Schmitz, campaign manager for Missourians for the Protection of Dogs/ YES! on Prop B, issued the following statement in reaction to yesterday’s rescues of 116 dogs from

• Art exhibit to raise awareness about Missouri’s puppy mill industry

  • Mon, 09/13/2010 – 22:22
  • Springfield News-Leader

  The Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation is sponsoring the “Misery in Missouri: Dogs Can’t Vote… You Can!” art exhibit designed to raise awareness about Missouri’s puppy mill industry. The exhibit at Canvas Gallery at 315 South Ave. will be on

• GUEST COMMENTARY: Prop B would improve lives of dogs

  • Tue, 09/07/2010 – 13:35
  • Columbia Missourian

  Coco the boxer was purchased by Sue Campbell of Palatine, Ill., from an Illinois pet store in 2009 when she was 12 weeks old. After several months of treatment for numerous conditions, including severe pneumonia and a high fever, she passed away. Buddy

• ** READ THE REST OF THE GREAT AND INFORMATIVE EXAMINER STORY: CLICK HERE

• ** Thanks again to the Examiner and to the wonderful reporter Penny Eims, Dog News Examiner
• ** Pictures and some comments courtesy ThoughtsFurPaws & JL Smith

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Life on the streets is hard, but we can stop it from being a death sentence.

Join the Street Dog Defenders crusade and help end their suffering.

No more poisoning. No more beatings. No more shooting. I’m sure that, like me, you dream of seeing an end to the cruel and unnecessary killing of street dogs.

That’s why we’ve launched a crusade –- a crusade to prevent vulnerable street dogs from merciless ly being killed by the hundreds of thousands. Humane Society International is working with communities on nearly every continent to safely, effectively, and humanely address the public health concerns associated with street dogs.

And for 20 years running, HSI supporters like you have helped us develop new approaches and techniques to humanely address problems such as dog overpopulation and the spread of rabies in India, the Philippines, Nepal, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

Our most successful street dog program to date is in Bhutan, and I invite you to watch this compelling video to learn how we’re imp roving the lives of animals and people there.

Then, join our Street Dog Defenders crusade today with a pledge of just $15 a month to help street dogs in Bhutan and around the world.

When we first came to Bhutan, the number of free-roaming dogs ran into the tens of thousands, posing health concerns to animals and people alike. In partnership with the Bhutan government, we embarked on a first-of-its-kind nationwide spay/neuter/vaccination program. Within the first year, we reached more than 14,000 dogs, with a three- to five-year goal of 50,000 dogs.

You can help ensure a safer and healthier future for street dogs in Bhutan and around the world when you join our Street Dog Defenders crusade. Your gift of $15 a month will help us:

• curb overpopulation through spay and neuter

• provide training for veterinary students and technicians

• educate local officials in humane animal control methods

• provide rabies vaccinations to protect dogs and communities against this deadly virus

• educate local communities on the issue to help change attitudes and — even more importantly — behavior toward street dog

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Hopefully you’ll join the Street Dog Defenders crusade today with a gift of $15 a month to make a difference in the lives of street animals around the globe.

Become a Street Dog Defender with your monthly donation today and help street dogs and their communities around the world. We’re helping to reduce the suffering of street dogs everywhere and protect them and their communities from rabies, a serious public health risk.Please give monthly and help street dogs in Bhutan and around the world.

Watch our compelling video and learn about the work of our veterinarian teams in Bhutan and the animals they help. Then please become a monthly donor using the secure form below — and help us continue our work to help street dogs everywhere.

** If you’d prefer to make a one-time donation to support our work for street dogs, please click here.

**To make a donation in Canadian dollars, please click here.

*** (Contributions to Humane Society International are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law. HSI’s tax identification number is 52-1769464). Thanks to HSI for this informative update.

What Missourians don’t know could hurt dogs — so help us make sure they get the facts by November 2.

In case you didn’t know, MISSOURI IS THE FIRST STATE IN YEARS TO HAVE AN ANTI-PUPPY MILL BILL ON THE NOVEMER BALLOT. We need to support this issue however possible because if Missourri passes a puppy mill bll, well that lays the groundwork for piss-poor regulations states rigjt now like Kentucky, Ohio and Pennslylvania – three of the worst puppy mill proprieters in the midwest (trust me  – I live in Ohio and have seen first hand what these Amish mils do the aniamls, to do the same and start cracking down on this inhumae illegal buiness).

Yesterday, the Missourians for the Protection of Dogs/YES! on Prop B campaign in Missouri launched another compelling television ad that delivers this critical message:

“At puppy mills in Missouri, dogs are crammed into small and filthy cages, denied veterinary care, exposed to extremes of heat and cold, and given no exercise or human affection. These puppy mills are cruel and the way these dogs are treated is wrong.

Missouri has approximately 3,000 puppy mills — 30 percent of the entire nation — and it’s very likely that a puppy from a Missouri mill is lying in a cage at a pet store near you, at this very moment. 

Missouri has more puppy mills than any other state—and it’s very likely that a puppy from a Missouri mill is lying in a cage at a pet store near you, at this very moment. Proposition B will help these dogs by reforming Missouri’s puppy mills, but the measure won’t pass without your help.

Help us send a powerful message to Missouri voters by making a special gift to raise the $200,000 we need to air this TV ad about Proposition B.

 Missouri has more puppy mills than any other state—and it’s very likely that a puppy from a Missouri mill is lying in a cage at a pet store near you, at this very moment. Proposition B will help these dogs by reforming Missouri’s puppy mills, but the measure won’t pass without your help.

Help us send a powerful message to Missouri voters by making a special gift to raise the $200,000 needed to air this TV ad about Proposition B.

The measure won’t pass without your help!

You wouldn’t treat your own dog like that — and I know you wouldn’t tolerate puppy mill cruelty, either. That’s why I’m asking you to help us send a powerful message to Missouri voters. Watch this critical ad, then make a special gift to help us air this TV ad about Proposition B. TV ads are expensive — especially when they air during popular shows like “American Idol,” “Dancing With the Stars,” and “CSI.” But the potential audience is enormous.

Please watch the YES! on Prop B ad, then help us get it on the air. Here’s what your donation will buy:

If five people give just $25, we can buy an ad on the “Oprah Winfrey Show” in Kansas City for $125.
If 53 people give $75 each, we can buy an ad on “Dancing With the Stars” in St. Louis for $4,000.
If 18 people give $100 each, we can buy an ad on “CSI” in Springfield for $1,800.
↔If one person gives $1,350, we can buy an ad on “The Today Show” in St. Louis.

Please don’t wait.

Thousands of puppies and breeding dogs have no time to lose, and we have a short window of opportunity before Election Day on November 2. We’ll have the greatest impact by broadcasting our ad to millions in Missouri. Will you help make sure voters get the message?

On behalf of thousands of dogs suffering in Missouri, thank you so much for helping us show these puppy mill images on TV, and showing Missouri voters the truth about this cruelty.

And please remember guys, yes this bill is up for vote in Missouri, but if this passes, it’s not to long before states like Ohio,WestViorginia, Indiana et al start following in the footsteps. This Missouri bill will literally pae the way for states like Ohio to follow suit,. It would be so lovely!

So go ahead and check other the radical (not a governmental ternm) wachjobs on the other side of the artgument and let me know if you need pamphlets, brochesm, infomration of any type and I’LL be happy to send it your way.

Thanks eveyone! And I know it’s a touch of Christmas but I’m a very firm believer in Karma, so no matter what you give, it wil come back to you times ten when you least expet it!

So let’s get out there on the frontlines and do what we can: I challenge all of us!

Thanks for listening to me ramble, and Goodnight my wonderful bloggie, welfare, adoption friends. I love you all!

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As you all read earlier, it’s my personal mission to Be the Change in multiple ways throughout not only the ne

Bernie and some rescue pups

xt year — but for the rest of my blessed time on this Earth. (See BlogPaws Be the Change page if you missed my earlier post.)

Today I made a small change this evening… I donated to my friend Bernie Berlin’s animal shelter. Bernie owns and operates “APlace to Bark” – a blog and dog rescue. She’s a no-kill rescue, and practically a one-woman show. She is one of my heroes, although she doesn’t know it. I saw on Facebook that it is her birthday, and for her birthday this year she is only asking for one thing: donations to help her dogs. Nothing for HER. Not a card, not a gift. Her birthday wish is to help the animals in her care…

How selfless…

Bernie rarely visits my blog; and she doesn’t ever comment. But that doesn’t matter to me: she doesn’t have time. She’s busy rescuing dogs from death row and other horrid situations.

Plus – I’m no longer concerned with my traffic or rankings.

What I am concerned about is helping animals, and helping people who help animals.

Another way that YOU can help Be the Change today is by getting in touch with Barbara Schmitz, the Campaign Manager for
“Missourians for the Protection of Dogs” also known as “YES! on Prop B.”

Prop B could change the lives of MILLIONS of dogs. More importantly, it could lay the EXTREMELY CRUCIAL groundwork for other states’ to enact similar propositions, or even get them on the November ballot.

Barbara emailed me today and said this:

“We are less than six weeks away from Election Day — the excitement is building — but we still have a lot of work to do before thousands of Missouri dogs will have a better life. Thanks to your efforts, the campaign is running in high gear, but we must not let up until we win on November 2. Can you find some time to help out this week? Here are three BIG ways:

We’re getting close. Help us maintain the momentum and win for dogs.”

1. Party! for Puppies

Host a Party for Pups Sunday, Oct. 3 with advocates in Missouri and nationwide. Have fun and fundraise for dogs. Plus every dollar raised will be doubled: A Missouri donor will match up to $100,000 raised at house parties. Plan your party»

(I posted about this earlier this week)

2. Hello Neighbor

Spread the word around the neighborhood. Leaflet and table within your community with Prop B materials provided by us. Email info@yesonpropb.com or call 314-725-8880 for materials and a list of local events. Get the goods»

3. Donate for Dogs

With the opposition spreading misinformation, we need more than ever to communicate our positive message of the humane treatment of dogs to voters all across Missouri, through TV ads and other efforts. Give now»

Prop B is strongly supported by SO many welfare groups that I cannot even list them all. Their biggest ally, however, is the Humane Society of the United States.

Now let me explain somethings before some of you exit this page because you saw the term “HSUS.”

They get a bad rap. But if you research the people/groups who spread that “bad rap,” well, I’ll let you discover their legitimacy for yourselves…

HSUS was NOT created to fund all the county Humane Societies across the country. Yes – they do give around 10-15% of their yearly income to those in most need; but the MAJOR GOAL OF the HSUS is to BE THE VOICE FOR ANIMALS on “The Hill,” aka in Washington, D.C. They are the strongest and most powerful animal welfare lobbying group in the country. I have several contacts there at the national and state levels, and I can assure you – if this Proposition B – to help puppy mill dogs in Missouri – actually just MAKES IT TO THE BALLOT – it will be a HUGE win for we animal welfare advocates.

Why?

Well I live in Ohio, and although we had a “puppy mill bill” last year, it died in the Senate.

HSUS Photo of an infamous MO puppy mill

Why?

Because Senators don’t give a damn about animals. They couldn’t care less about the Amish-managed mills in central Ohio, or the packed factory farms across the country, or the underground cock- and dog-fighting rings, or the drastically misinterpreted breeds like Pit Bulls, who are now officially banned in half the counties in Ohio.

But getting Prop B on the ballot makes the concept of animal welfare laws resonate in politicians’ (sometimes small) minds. The more they hear from their constituents, the more likely they are to sponsor actual Bills and other legislation. Especially this year. Those who passed Obama’s bank bailout and other bailouts are TERRIFIED of losing office for that sole vote they made.

So if we can convince these guys that they need to bring up, back up, support, and sponsor a Bill in the House or Senate that either:

- increases punishment for animal abusers

- shuts down puppy mills FOR GOOD (or at least starts the process of investigation, fines, etc)

- increases USDA inspections and presence overall (which is pathetic and seriously lacking)

-investigates places like Petland and other “problem children”

-gets more funding for animal shelters and less for “pork” stuffed into major bills

- I just “co-rescued” (with family) 2 homeless kittens (1 from a parking garage, the other from a feral colony without a mother)

… if we do any of these things and get enough people to sign a petition, or write a letter, or send an email — ALL PROMISING VOTES, well chances are those Reps and Sens just might be a little more open to hearing about it this year… because those who voted for Obama’s bailout are scared s**tless they’ll be booted out of office.

So let’s promise them our votes if they promise us something in return — improvements in animal welfare laws.

I know it’s a stretch, but I plan to take whatever steps are necessary to start, and have already taken several…

- I write letters to local and state officials once a month

- I gather signatures on petitions for BanOhioDogAuctions.com and my great friend who runs it, Mary O’Connor Shaver

- I spread the word to whomever will listen – whether I’m at the mall, a restaurant, walking the dog, or at the supermarket

- I donate money to places like Bernie’s shelter, and to the Prop B group – even though I don’t even live there, because it’s THAT IMPORTANT to me

- I WANT TO BE THE CHANGE. And I want you to Be the Change too, in any way you can.

*** Email me at thoughtsfurpaws@gmail.com for information on how you can get involved in animal welfare advocacy in ANY state. I will not share your email address or information and you can do what you please with the info, advice and materials I send to you.

Me and BlogPaws Co-Founder Caroline (Romeo's Mom)

Phew! It’s taken me a whole week to compile all my thoughts and learnings from the BlogPaws West Conference in Denver last weekend — but I finally did!

It was so wonderful to see bloggie friends like Bev and Tyler from The Fire Hydrant, Mr Skeezix,

3 of 4 IAMS-sponsored bloggers (me on right!)

Cleveland Dog Blog, Life With Dogs, Baxter Boo, and to meet wonderful new friends like those at Pet News and Views, Canine Companions for Independence and the Helen Woodward Animal Center!

Despite the horrible fires burning through Boulder’s canyons, valleys and neighborhoods, and despite the overwhelming number of now-homeless animals collected therefore; BlogPaws West was a smash hit! 

Although I was excited to be nominated for Dogtime.com’s Petties Award for The Best Pet Blog, I did not win… 

My "appearance" in Petties Ceremony

I was definitely not surprised, however; as the other three blogs I was up against are much much older than ThoughtsFurPaws and therefore have a much larger audience and group of loyal followers. STILL– THANK YOU dearly to all of you readers out there who voted for me. I love you and appreciate it more than I can put into words.

The major theme of this BlogPaws conference - which was originally presented at BlogPaws East in April of this year – was “Be The Change.” This concept essentially means that we pet-lovers (starting with pet bloggers) need to start the change we want to see… 

For example, my goals to “Be the Change” include:

-start promoting animal welfare legislation even more than I do now

-start volunteering more

- holding more petition rallies

- holding fundraisers for local rescues and shelters (which we are now going to refer to as “Animal Care Centers” thanks to Mike Arms, Keynote Speaker and CEO of the Helen Woodward Animal Center)

-start advocating more frequently and fervently for change in animal welfare laws at all levels of gov’t

*** Click here to learn more or to support Be the Change for Pets on Facebook.

Aside from the wonderful learning sessions that the speakers’ presented: which covered everything from WordPress/Blogger Tips and Tricks, to Product Review Essentials, to Social Media 101, to SEO for Bloggers, to Using Your Blog to Raise Funds for Shelters, and TONS more; there were also a few WONDERFUL speakers.

Courtesy HWAC

As mentioned above, my favorite speaker was Mike Arms from the Helen Woodward Animal Center.

He and I discussed at length the negative connotation that the phrase “animal shelter” now ensues… or the phrase “rescue animal” or “animal rescue.”

About 75 % of the general population associate these phrases with animals that no one else wants; animals that are “broken down, bruised, “problem children,” mutts, ugly, or formerly abused,” etc.

Well, yes, some of them are formerly abused, but in my 15 years of working with animals and at over 12 different centers in THREE different states, I have never met a “shelter dog” or “shelter cat” who was entirely different from one that you adopt elsewhere. If anything, the pets adopted from these “shelters and rescues” end up being the sweetest most loyal types — as they’ve had some rough beginnings or middle parts of their lives; especially today’s shelter pets — most of them are dumped by people who can’t afford them anymore because of the damn economy and the housing crisis.

And what’s with people who say you can’t find a “purebred” at a shelter?? That’s CRAP. One in every 4-5 dogs in shelters are purebreds…

So what can we do to change this perception? Well that’s another of my PERSONAL goals in the “Be the Change” challenge put forth to us bloggers by the BlogPaws co-founders.

Over the next year, I plan to change how people in and around my neighborhood, my city, my county, my region, and my entire STATE especially view “shelters” and “rescue centers.”

 As to how I will do that, well that’s my own secret recipe, but I’ll tell you that:

-It doesn’t come without hard work

The Official Be The Change Sign-Up Board...

-It doesn’t come without spending HOURS UPON HOURS of free-time and weekends working towards a change in the animal welfare arena

- It doesn’t come without tireless research

- It doesn’t come without serious networking and partnering with other bloggers and advocates willing to give time and $$

-It doesn’t come without me spending even more money to hold gatherings & rallies, to make marketing materials for leafleting, and to hire help in areas where I need it

My personal mission to Be the Change will start with the IAMS Home for the Holidays campaign. My readers will see a contest pop up around the middle or end of October. And this is the FIRST TIME in my almost 3 years of blogging where I will be kindly asking my readers to donate $1, $2, $3, or however many dollars you can to help homeless animals to support the efforts of the IAMS Home for the Holidays Campaign. 

The goal of Home for the Holidays? 

To find LOVING homes for millions of pets. Last year, IAMS successfully found homes for over ONE MILLION animals. How incredible is that? Wouldn’t YOU want to be a part of a movement like that? Well ThoughtsFurPaws is going to give you the chance. 

(Whomever raises the most money for my private Home for the Holidays Fundraiser wins: a handheld video camera worth $250; one extra-large ergonomic Furminator; and one $50 PetSmart gift card. These prizes have already been bought.)

(*** And to my every day readers or even those who just stop by every now and then – I do hope you’ll take into consideration how much of my own personal money I spend on this blog… particularly the AWESOME contest prize packages I give away…)

Another thing I’m doing to Be the Change is sitting as a Board Member of my dear, talented friend Kyla Duffy, author and performing artist, who created Up for Pups. You will definitely be hearing more about Kyla’s amazing drive and our combined efforts to help animals through her group.

In closing, the BlogPaws conference was - once more – truly unbelievable — thanks in part to IAMS/Eukanuba and the company’s Home for the Holidays campaign, who sponsored my trip there.  

IAMS is a strong, community-driven company that has survived much mud-slinging in the past from a certain rogue (that’s the nice word I use for psychotic and irrational) supposed, “animal rights” group… and speaking of IAMS, my great friend Bev writes the IAMS blog and works with we bloggers on the Home for the Holidays Campaign! Thank you Bev and thank you IAMS/Eukanuba!

The Donation Bin for Boulder Pets Hurt/Lost in the Fire

Anyhow, the last thing I’ll note about BlogPaws West is that together, we raised over $500 for the Boulder Valley Humane Society – who was the ringleader in sheltering the pets displaced by the raging wildfire.

We are certainly a generous group – and I know you, my readers, are generous as well. So I do hope that you’ll get as excited as I am about Home for the Holidays.

Stay tuned for information and details about the contest. In the mean time, head on over to Bev’s blog, the Helen Woodward AC, or IAMS’ Facebook H4tH page to read for yourself how much of an impact Home for the Holidays has had on animals over the years. Also, make sure you follow Home for the Holidays on Twitter!

In closing, I also want to thank all the companies who sponsored this event and gave us some AMAZING swag: including Hartz, PetSmart, Kyjen Toys, Bissell, Inc, Embrace Pet Insurance, Greenies, IAMS, Dogtime Media, HeartGuard, Wellness, Purina,  Found Animals, and so many more.

Whether you live in Ohio or not, if you consider yourself an animal welfare advocate then you probably know about Ohio animal welfare groups’ undying support to get a ban passed on dog auctions, cruel activities that give more money to puppy millers and “over-breeders,” and that, in turn, worsen the major homeless/rescue pet overpopulation problem. In addition, it’s suspected that some of these dogs bought at auction end up as test animals in laboratories across the country…

Dogs in tiny cages in "Auction Row"

Since 2004, Ohio Dog Auctions have grown into anything but “run of the mill.” Breeders who participate in these auctions are raising HUGE numbers of dogs/puppies with profit as their primary motive of existence. Many of the animals are unhealthy, abused, not screened for genetic disease, lack good temperament and show NO resemblance to the real breed.

Run by one of the most well-known animal advocates in the state – Mary O’Conner Shaver – the event is being held to get additional signatures on The Coalition to Ban Ohio Dog Auctions, an:

Ohio has no laws preventing dog auctions. (And is WAY behind in other animal welfare legislation as well including penalties for animal cruelty and FINALLY passing a puppy mill bill.)

Many concerned citizens firmly believe the auctions serve not reputable breeders but large commercial facilities where dogs are bred to produce as many puppies as possible in conditions ranging from unsanitary to inhumane.

The Coalition to Ban Ohio Dog Auctions is spearheading a new, citizen-backed ballot initiative – The Ohio Dog Auctions Act.

The auctions usually sell smaller breeds, but every now and then will have one or two larger dogs as well. (Click here for a video on Ohio dog auctions.)

The measure (similar in language to Pennsylvania’s Statute 459-603

Stop Dog Auctions & Puppy Mills in Ohio

Voters across the state are communicating with their fellow citizens and starting to gather a goal of a minimum of 120,700 signatures by December 1, 2010 to put the proposed law before the Legislature in January 2011.

Volunteer petitioners are needed to make this initiative a reality in Ohio —we have until December 1, 2010!  We need everyone’s participation to make this vital effort a success! GET READY TO SERVE AS A STRONG VOICE FOR THESE POOR VOICELESS PUPS AND STUD DOGS at a peaceful rally and signature-gathering event…

** SO PLEASE COME to the event for Ohioans this Saturday, August 21st from 10 am to 2 pm at the Holmes County Fairgrounds **

The more signatures we can gather, the better!

Remember that many farmers and dog fanciers, hobby and show-breeders will also be attending — and they SUPPORT the Act.

OUR MAIN FOCUS IS TO THE OHIO DOG AUCTIONS ACT AND relationships there to puppy mills, and pet homelessness. If you’d like to download signs to bring, you can find them on www.BanOhioDogAuctions.com. (Per the Holmes County Sheriff, remember we must be 6 feet off the roadside.)

Peaceful Child "Rallier" at Previous BODA Event

Also, over 100 Harley riders from across Ohio are scheduled to join us in support of our efforts to raise awareness of the dog auctions problem and the Act. Their route includes a visit past the Fairgrounds and the Livestock Auction Barn where the real auction takes place.

If you would like to volunteer, please contact Julie from Operation Warm and Cozy, at 330-364-7190.

You can also support the coalition by clicking on this sentence to sign the petition at Care2′s Petition Site.

There’s a list of related media coverage/releases further down the page here.

For more information about the event visit http://www.ColumbusTopDogs.com.

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