Vermont legislators pass H. 50 to better regulate commercial dog breeders

NEW YORK—The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) applauds Vermont legislators for passing H. 50, a measure that will give officials the tools they need to enforce laws protecting breeding dogs and the puppies they produce by providing clear definitions and eliminating current legal loopholes. H. 50, which previously passed the House unanimously, passed the Senate yesterday, and now awaits Gov. Peter Shumlin’s signature.

“Vermont has a long history of protecting animals, but laws regulating commercial dog breeders in the state are ambiguous, making it nearly impossible to identify and monitor these facilities,” said Bill Ketzer, senior state director of ASPCA Government Relations for the Northeast region. “H. 50 will address this issue as it provides for clearly defined regulations, and we urge Governor Shumlin to sign this legislation into law to keep inhumane puppy mills out of Vermont.”

Sponsored by Rep. John Bartholomew (D-Windsor), H.50 provides a reasonable and much-improved definition of “pet dealer” – encompassing any person selling, exchanging or giving away three or more litters annually – thereby giving municipalities better guidance to determine who must be regulated by law. Under the current federal law, only breeders who have more than three breeding females and sell their puppies to pet stores or puppy brokers need to be licensed and inspected by the USDA. The measure would also allow inspections to occur at any time after a permit has been issued. Current law only requires that inspections occur during “reasonable business hours,” which is vague and allows breeders to manipulate the law to delay inspections indefinitely if desired, allowing even the worst breeders to easily evade inspection and oversight.

“Current regulations in Vermont are missing several key elements that have allowed irresponsible dog breeders to circumvent existing laws,” said Cori Menkin, senior director of the ASPCA’s Puppy Mills Campaign. “H. 50 will ensure that large-scale commercial dog breeding facilities do not spiral out of control and become puppy mills. It will provide some of the many protections Vermont’s animals deserve.”

A puppy mill is a large-scale commercial dog breeding operation where profit is given priority over the well-being of the dogs. Puppy mills usually house dogs in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, without adequate veterinary care, food, water and socialization. To minimize waste cleanup, dogs are often kept in cages with wire flooring that can injure their paws and legs. Breeding dogs might spend their entire lives outdoors, exposed to the elements, or crammed inside filthy structures with no access to fresh air or sunlight. To maximize profits, female dogs are bred at every opportunity, with little to no recovery time between litters. When, after a few years, they can no longer reproduce, breeding dogs are often killed.

The ASPCA’s national “No Pet Store Puppies” campaign aims to reduce the demand for puppy mill puppies by urging consumers to pledge not to buy any items—including food, supplies or toys—from stores or websites that sell puppies. To learn more about the ASPCA’s efforts to eradicate puppy mills, please visit www.NoPetStorePuppies.com.

About the ASPCA^®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first animal welfare organization in North America and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animals. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, please visit www.ASPCA.org, and be sure to follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

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Covert canine agents will stop at nothing to end inhumane puppy mills

NEW YORK–The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), as part of its national “No Pet Store Puppies” campaign, today announced the launch of a national fleet of covert canine agents tasked with using interrogation tactics to sniff out consumers who support the cruel puppy mill industry by shopping in pet stores that sell puppies. Most puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy mills, where they are kept in inhumane conditions and do not receive proper veterinary care. The ASPCA’s interrogating canines will not stop barking until this inhumane industry rolls over.

“Our highly skilled fleet of puppy interrogators will be instrumental in identifying consumers unwittingly backing the inhumane puppy mill industry with their purchases,” said Cori Menkin, senior director of ASPCA Puppy Mills Campaign. “Our canine agents are ready to take this cause into their own paws, and it will be a dog day afternoon for anyone caught holding the wrong biscuit.”

The ASPCA’s national No Pet Store Puppies campaign has recruited a militant team of highly trained dogs to lead these covert operations. The ASPCA has already unleashed several of these undercover dog interrogators to tail pet owners who shop for pet supplies at pet stores that sell puppies. The campaign selected puppies who clearly have a bone to pick with the commercial breeding facilities that hold their canine comrades captive in such unsanitary, overcrowded conditions. Through the use of undisclosed tactics, the ASPCA agents will successfully eliminate consumer demand for puppy mill puppies.

One ASPCA agent, who preferred to remain anonymous, was asked what happens to puppy pet store shoppers who are found to be barking up the wrong tree. He responded, “It can get pretty ruff.”

Confidential footage depicting one such interrogation session was leaked earlier this week and can be viewed here: http://youtu.be/pwonWI8ctVE

To learn more about the ASPCA’s No Pet Store Puppies campaign and the fleet of puppy interrogators, visit www.NoPetStorePuppies.com.

About the ASPCA^®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first animal welfare organization in North America and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animals. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, please visit www.ASPCA.org, and be sure to follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

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Companion Animal Protection Society (CAPS) Launches National Campaign to Raise Awareness about the Pet Shop - Puppy Mill Industry

Cohasset, MA - Glamorous models and Beatrice, a sassy Basset Hound puppy mill survivor, are the faces of Companion Animal Protection Society’s (CAPS) national campaign designed to educate the public about atrocities in puppy mills and the risks associated with buying dogs at pet shops supplied by these facilities.

The Models Against Pet Shops and Puppy Mills campaign also promotes adoption of rescue and shelter animals. Advertising components include public service announcements airing on PBS television stations across the country, print ads, billboards, transit posters, social media efforts led by Beatrice, and related public relations and marketing efforts.

Beatrice was only 4-months-old when CAPS investigators rescued her from a South Dakota puppy mill in 2003. Beatrice was deemed unfit for breeding by the facility due to her deformed elbows. Fast forward to 2013: Beatrice resides in a loving, forever home and is the face of a National campaign designed to educate the public about the pet shop-puppy mill connection. Beatrice has her own business cards and has taken the social media world by storm with more than 1,400 Facebook fans and over 500 connections on LinkedIn.

“Our Models Against Pet Shops and Puppy Mills campaign is designed to make sure that beautiful animals like Beatrice are treated with kindness and the utmost respect no matter where they are and who is caring for them,” said CAPS Founder and President Deborah Howard. “It’s so important to inform the public about this important animal protection issue and educate them about the sources of that cute puppy in the window or sold over the Internet.”

Beatrice gladly shares the spotlight with professional model Kiley Wirtz Jennings, who learned about CAPS after viewing a shocking video documentary chronicling the undercover employment of a CAPS investigator who compiled the evidence necessary to convict one of the most notorious dog brokers of animal cruelty and terminate her USDA license. Kiley was so moved by the documentary that she contacted CAPS and offered to donate her time. Additional professional models, make-up artists, clothes stylists, a fashion photographer, a videographer, and rescue dogs, also donated their time.

About CAPS

About Beatrice - CAPS Spokesmodel

Although I no longer chew on some of my mother’s possessions (like her pretty shoes, shiny cell phone, and pink lace bra), I am still a puppy at heart. I've come a long way to be the princess I am. Before I arrived at the doorstep of my true home, all I knew was neglect and wire cages. My name is Beatrice, my fans call me Bea, and my story began more than eight years ago in a puppy mill.

I was only four months old when Companion Animal Protection Society (CAPS) investigators saved me from a place in South Dakota back in 2003 in a puppy mill that bred Basset Hounds, like me, for the pet shop industry. When the CAPS investigators drove us halfway from South Dakota to meet up with Kansas City-based Mid America Basset Rescue, I knew it couldn't get any worse so I wagged my tail in anticipation. Even my mama and grandma were getting out of there! Thanks to my foster folks, Jim and Chris Bly, who took care of me for nearly eight months at their Basset refuge in Kansas, I eventually found my way to the loving home of CAPS.

By the tender age of four, I already had glaucoma, just like Grace and Millie, both of whom developed it later in life than me. I'm blind in my left eye. My right eye has undergone two laser surgeries. I was recently diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. From a young age I had more problems than a senior dog – something that happens often with us puppy mill dogs.

Sometimes I feel bad for Mother and CAPS because of all they have put up with in vet bills and medications (I use four eye drops and a pill which costs hundreds of dollars a month), but they have never left me and do everything possible to get me back on my paws. My health problems are a constant worry for my favorite human. She wants to make sure I'm comfortable and healthy. Plus, being the spokemodel for CAPS, I have to be healthy and fit. Besides my regular vet care, I've had holistic treatments. With all my health concerns, it was important to address them early. I believe CAPS and mother want the very best for me. We've tried acupuncture treatments, herbal supplements, massages, and loads of hugs. Since I'm such a trooper, I never complain, especially when they give me hugs and my favorite –tummy rubs.

Thanks to all that therapy, I'm a cheerful, normal pooch. Like I said before, I've come a long way. I know that thanks to CAPS, Mid America Basset Rescue, Sterling Impression, and all the vets and professionals who have treated me throughout the years, I can run around the yard chasing squirrels (I mostly leave that to my cattle dog mix brothers), sunbathe on decks, or go up the stairs to snuggle in a blanket when it's cold outside. In many ways, I think I'm much better now than when I was a puppy. I'm stronger, smarter, and happier than ever.

Now I'm the face of rescued puppy mill dogs. I help CAPS expose those scary, horrible places to put an end to all the suffering. I never want what happened to me to repeat itself. I know that's a lot to wish for, but all dogs deserve a family like mine.

When I'm not campaigning against dog breeding facilities and pet shops, I'm cheering and supporting Mother and the people behind the CAPS organization while they address the abuse and suffering of dogs like me through investigations, education, media relations, legislative involvement, rescues, consumer assistance, and pet industry employee relations. I often blog about my comfortable life on “Bea’s Beat” and help Mother by making guest appearances in shows such as FOX News’ “Strategy Room” with Rick Leventhal (if I could hold a pen, they would've all asked for autographs, maybe a paw stamp will do for next time). I was a Companion of the Month for Dogleggs. I posed with beautiful, successful models, just like me, for the CAPS ad campaign, Models Against Pet Shops and Puppy Mills, in Fort Worth, Texas.

The Humane Society of the United States Announces Milestone Number of Puppy Friendly Pet Stores Nationwide

(Dec. 14, 2012) –The Humane Society of the United States reached a milestone for its Puppy Friendly Pet Stores program with the 2,000th pet store agreeing to take a stand against puppy mills by refusing to sell puppies. Within hours, three other stores added their names to this growing list – meaning that 2003 stores, spread across all 50 states, are standing up for the welfare of breeding dogs and puppies.

“These stores have made the responsible decision to pledge not to sell puppies now or in the future, and some of them have even transitioned from selling commercially-raised puppies to an adoptions-only model,” said Melanie Kahn, senior director of The HSUS' puppy mills campaign. “The Humane Society of the United States applauds these businesses for being leaders in the humane economy.”

The majority of pet stores in the United States that sell puppies utilize puppy mills, mass production facilities that churn out large numbers of puppies under inhumane conditions. Again and again, such stores have been found to be misleading consumers with stories about getting puppies from responsible breeders, when in fact puppy mills are a key part of their supply chain.

Just this week, The HSUS released its third annual investigation of pet stores, linking dozens of pet stores in the Chicagoland area to more than 2,000 puppies shipped from puppy mills.

Increasingly, owners of pet stores are realizing they don’t need to sell puppies to run a successful pet-related business, and they are saving lives almost every day. In October, The HSUS worked with two pet stores in Wyoming to help convert them completely from puppy sales to supporting local shelter adoptions.

The HSUS encourages shoppers to purchase pet supplies at stores displaying the Puppy Friendly Pet Stores sign, which states, “We Love Puppies, That’s Why We Don’t Sell Them.” Store owners who sign The HSUS’ Puppy Friendly Pet Stores pledge receive free literature for their customers on how to find a puppy from a reputable source, and encouraging pet lovers to support local shelters.

A list of all the participating stores is available at humanesociety.org/puppystores.

The HSUS encourages adoption from local shelters or rescues as a first choice, and also provides tips on finding responsible breeders at humanesociety.org/puppy.

Puppy Mill Facts:

• Approximately one-third of the nation's 9,000 independent pet stores sell puppies.
• The HSUS estimates that 2 million to 4 million puppy mill puppies are sold each year in the United States; meanwhile 3 to 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized in shelters each year for lack of homes.
• Documented puppy mill conditions include over-breeding, inbreeding, minimal veterinary care, poor food and shelter, crowded cages and lack of socialization.
• Dogs kept for breeding in puppy mills suffer for years in continual confinement. They are bred as often as possible and then destroyed or discarded once they can no longer produce puppies.
• Pet stores and online sellers often use attractive websites to hide the truth and to dupe consumers into thinking that they are dealing with a small, reputable breeder.
• Puppy mills contribute to the pet overpopulation problem, which results in millions of unwanted dogs euthanized at shelters every year.

(Dec. 7, 2012)—For singer/songwriter Colbie Caillat, celebrating the holidays means being surrounded by the ones you love—including your pets. As a spokesperson for The Humane Society of the United States, Caillat shares some simple tips for keeping pets safe from holiday hazards, and for bringing a new pet into your household during this busy season.

Adopt your next pet: If you’re thinking about adding a pet to your family, now or any time of year, choose adoption from your local animal shelter or rescue group. “There are so many great dogs, cats and other pets just waiting in shelters for a second chance and you can save a life,” Caillat says. Her own two dogs, a golden retriever named Plum and a mixed breed named Mate, are adopted.

Caillat, who has been a spokesperson for The HSUS’ Stop Puppy Mills campaign, adds that people should not yield to impulse purchases during the holidays and under no circumstances should they buy pets from pet stores or online animal dealers. Most of their dogs come from puppy mills, where animals are generally kept in poor conditions.

Think twice before giving an animal as a gift: Because the recipient may not be ready for the commitment involved with the lifetime care of a pet, Caillat and The HSUS recommend people to instead give the gift of adoption. Many shelters offer adoption gift certificates, and this lets the adopter choose the perfect lifetime companion for them, when they have time to bond. If gift certificates aren’t available, consider buying the person a gift membership to their local shelter and/or The HSUS or making a donation in their name.

Make the holidays safe for your pets: As much joy as pets bring to the holidays, The HSUS and Caillat warn that the holidays can bring hazards for pets. But with a little preparation and caution, pets and people alike can enjoy the festivities.

• A number of seasonal plants are poisonous to pets if nibbled or eaten, including ivy, holly, mistletoe and others. For more information, click here.
• Keep holiday decorations away from pets. Tinsel, bows, ribbons and wrapping paper can be tempting chew toys for pets, but can damage their digestive systems. Remember to keep tree ornaments high enough that they’re out of your pet’s reach.
• Don’t leave candles unattended. Pets may accidentally knock them over and spill wax or start a fire.
• Keep a close eye on your pet, especially if he is dressed in a festive collar or outfit for the holiday. Ensure there are no chewable parts or pieces that could break off and choke your pet. Do not leave them unattended in costume.
• Provide your pet with a quiet, out-of-the-way room during holiday parties. Though some pets may enjoy socializing opportunities, others will be overwhelmed by the excitement of a party.
• As you enjoy candy and other treats during the holidays, please don’t share with your pets. Chocolate can be hazardous, but also watch out for xylitol, a common sweetener. And individually-wrapped candies are double trouble as some pets might eat both the candy and the wrapper.
• Avoid the urge to give your pets table scraps, especially bones. Bones easily splinter and can cause serious health problems, even death.
• If you are planning to take your pet with you when visiting friends and relatives during the holidays, be sure to contact them in advance to find out if your pet is welcome. Because of the excitement during the holidays, it might be best to board your pet or hire a reputable pet sitter instead.
• Both guests and hosts enjoy a well-behaved pet. Practice good behaviors with your pet, like sit and stay, in advance of the holidays so they can be part of the fun with you.
• Remember that pet birds are especially sensitive to airborne particles and shouldn’t be near burning candles, potpourri, or any cookware with a non-stick surface.

The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without gifts, of course. Our online store Humane Domain carries a wide array of pet products and toys, as well as gifts for animal lovers, including apparel, jewelry, sleepwear, decorative accessories, and holiday cards and decorations. Ten to 20 percent of every purchase made at Humane Domain benefits HSUS programs and campaigns. Check out our other great gift ideas for adults, children, pets and the avid reader by visiting humanesociety.org/shop.

And if you’re looking for a soundtrack for the season, check out Colbie Caillat’s first holiday album, “Christmas in the Sand,” with original and classic holiday songs and guest appearances from Brad Paisley, Gavin DeGraw and more. Caillat and her two rescued dogs are also featured in a new book, “A Letter to My Dog: Notes to Our Best Friends” published by Chronicle Books and available wherever books are sold.

For more information about pet adoption, finding a responsible breeder, and how to avoid buying from a puppy mill, visit humanesociety.org/puppy. Find out more about Colbie Caillat and her holiday album at www.colbiecaillat.com.

Comments delivered to USDA in support of regulating Internet puppy mills

(Aug. 15, 2012) – The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Best Friends Animal Society, The Humane Society of the United States, Humane Society Legislative Fund, Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, and a member of the social change platform Change.org together have gathered approximately 350,000 letters and signatures from concerned citizens, the last of which were hand-delivered today to the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Agriculture in support of the agency’s efforts to regulate unlicensed puppy mills.

The USDA has proposed a rule that will require large-scale commercial breeders that sell pets over the Internet or by mail or phone, sight-unseen, to be licensed and inspected under the federal Animal Welfare Act. The public comment period closes today. Now the USDA will read and consider all comments before deciding final action on the proposed rule.

The following statements were issued:

“The enormous public response to the USDA’s proposed rule illustrates just how strongly Americans support greater oversight of unlicensed puppy mills,” said Nancy Perry, senior vice president of ASPCA Government Relations. “The ASPCA has witnessed the abhorrent cruelty that often exists behind the pictures of happy puppies posted on a breeder’s website, and this rule would crack down on the worst of Internet breeders. We encourage the USDA to adopt a final rule that is enforceable, effective and covers as many commercial breeders as possible.”

“Unethical breeders have been using the Internet as a way to avoid regulation," said Gregory Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society. "That the USDA is taking the initiative to close this loophole, plus the nearly 350,000 letters and signatures collected by national animal advocacy and animal protection groups to support the proposed rule change, reflect a profound societal change -- the growing will of the American public to protect puppies and other animals from unscrupulous breeders."

“I have three rescued dogs from puppy mills and am an active member of the rescue community,” said Washington, D.C. resident Anne Gregory, who gathered more than 143,000 signatures on her petition on Change.org. “I'm so optimistic that this USDA loophole will be closed and dogs will be protected thanks to the caring individuals who signed my petition.”

“We asked the public to speak up for dogs in unlicensed puppy mills -- and hundreds of thousands responded. This level of support shows the intensity of concern about the humane treatment of animals,” said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. “We thank the Obama administration and USDA for proposing this change and encourage them to make it final in short order." The HSUS gathered more than 111,000 letters in support of the rule.

“If enacted, this proposed rule will essentially achieve the same reform as pending congressional legislation which has more than 235 bipartisan cosponsors in the House and Senate,” said Michael Markarian, president of HSLF. “This overwhelming bipartisan support demonstrates that Americans of all political stripes want dogs protected from abuse and it’s time to crack down on unlicensed puppy mill dealers.”

“Veterinary professionals know firsthand the suffering of puppies born in unlicensed puppy mills and the anguish of families who bring home a sick or dying puppy,” said Dr. Susan Krebsbach of HSVMA. “This change is long overdue, and on behalf of our 4,500 veterinary professional members nationwide, we encourage the agency to finalize it quickly.”

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 11 million Americans, or one of every 28. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — on the Web at humanesociety.org.

The Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association was formed as a home for veterinary professionals who want to join together to speak out for animals, engage in direct care programs for animals in need, and educate the public and others in the profession about animal welfare issues. The HSVMA is an affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States -- on the Web at hsvma.org.

The Humane Society Legislative Fund is a social welfare organization incorporated under section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code and formed in 2004 as a separate lobbying affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States. The HSLF works to pass animal protection laws at the state and federal level, to educate the public about animal protection issues, and to support humane candidates for office. On the web at hslf.org.

Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first animal welfare organization in North America and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animals. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, please visit www.ASPCA.org, and be sure to follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Change.org is the world’s fastest-growing platform for social change — growing by one million new members a month, and empowering millions of people to start, join, and win campaigns for social change in their community, city and country.

Best Friends Animal Society, named Animal Welfare Non-Profit National Brand of the Year based on the 2012 Harris Poll EquiTrend® study, is a national animal welfare organization building no-kill programs and partnerships that will bring about a day when there are No More HomelessPets®. The society's leading initiatives in animal care and community programs are coordinated from its Kanab, Utah headquarters, the country's largest no-kill sanctuary. This work is made possible by the personal and financial support of a grassroots network of supporters and community partners across the nation.

Founder's Story

chris derose

For nearly three decades, Chris DeRose has been an international leader in the animal rights movement, and an inspiration and consultant to countless other individuals and groups dedicated to the animal cause. In 1984, he founded Last Chance for Animals (LCA), a national, nonprofit animal advocacy organization focused on investigating, exposing, and ending animal exploitation.

Chris had a promising future as an actor, a profession he eventually turned his back on; instead he chose to devote 100% of his time to saving animals and educating people about animal abuse. For ten years, using the power of the media, he worked as a reporter and special correspondent for TV’s Hard Copy. By the time Hard Copy left the air in 1999, Chris had contributed to more than 150 animal stories on the show that reached millions of people.

Since his youth in New Jersey, Chris has committed his life to ending oppression – wherever he finds it. As a Big Brother to street kids, he supported and encouraged a number of young men who, as a result, have built better lives for themselves. Through his experience as a police officer, Chris gained the necessary skills to investigate criminal activity, pursue the perpetrators, and see them brought to justice. He organized the Los Angeles Sunset Green Party, aimed at combining environmental and animal issues, and founded a spay/neuter program called New Hope for Animals.

Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr., Chris has fought all of his battles non-violently and has spent time in jail, including solitary confinement, for his peaceful actions. One tactic that rocked the foundation of animal experimentation was a daring daytime break-in at UCLA’s Brain Research Institute, documented by a film crew that showed the shocking truth of animal “research.” This first ever live-action footage clearly demonstrated that animal rights activists do not fabricate laboratory horrors, as they had been accused of for years. The 1988 UCLA break-in footage aired around the world on CNN and on the national television show 48 Hours.

Chris was also the driving force behind the first animal rights television show designed for the mainstream public, Hollywood Animal Crusaders, which aired nine times in 1999 on the cable channel Animal Planet. This remarkable achievement opened the door for other shows that introduced animal rights into American homes.

Through his investigative work, Chris and LCA gathered evidence that resulted in the nation’s first state prison sentences for multiple-count animal cruelty cases. He spearheaded an undercover investigation and won a lawsuit against the Gettysburg National Park Service to halt the slaughter of deer in national parks. LCA’s frontline campaign to save the Coulston primates came to fruition in 2002, when the Coulston Foundation shut its doors for good after years of total disregard for the lives and welfare of the primates in its care.

In August 2003, LCA’s 15-year investigation of Class “B” animal dealers cumulated in the bust of C. C. Baird, America’s largest and most notorious Class “B” dealer. Baird’s license was permanently revoked and he received the largest fine ever imposed by the USDA. This was the largest multi-agency investigation (federal, state and local) on any animal issue in U.S. history. The 2006 HBO America Undercover’s documentary Dealing Dogs, profiles this groundbreaking undercover investigation into the world of pet theft.

In September 2006, Chris DeRose played Mob Boss Joey Gamarra in Desire, the premiere show of MyNetworkTv. This nightly primetime drama gave Chris the chance to reach a whole new audience and recruit a new generation of animal activists.

In 1997, Chris released his autobiography, In Your Face, reporting on his life and his values on compassion. The book was the final achievement that earned him the prestigious Courage of Conscience International Peace Award – an honor he shares with previous award winners Mahatma Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr.


MISSION STATEMENT

Last Chance for Animals (LCA) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating animal exploitation through education, investigations, legislation, and media attention.  The organization believes that animals are highly sentient creatures who exist for their own reasons independent of their service to humans; they should not be made to suffer for the latter.  LCA therefore opposes the use of animals in food and clothing production, scientific experimentation, and entertainment.   Instead, it promotes a cruelty-free lifestyle and the ascription of rights to non-human beings.

Purebred Registry Group Routinely Blocks Legislative Protections for Dogs

(July 9, 2012) -- The Humane Society of the United States released a report calling on the American Kennel Club to reverse course and support efforts to protect dogs from the worst abuses at puppy mills. The report also criticizes AKC for pandering to the interests of large-scale, commercial breeding facilities rather than serving smaller-scale, high-quality breeders who make up the majority of AKC.

The report notes that numerous puppy mill operators who have been charged with animal cruelty have been selling AKC registered puppies and some of them even passed AKC inspections.

“The American Kennel Club bills itself as ‘The Dog’s Champion,’ but our report shows a pattern of activity that is entirely at odds with that self-description,” said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS. “The AKC has opposed more than 80 bills and proposals in the last five years that would have implemented common-sense, humane standards of care at large-scale breeding facilities. We are shocked that a group that should be standing shoulder to shoulder with us is constantly lined up with the puppy mill industry.”

The report is based on information uncovered during HSUS-assisted raids of puppy mills, AKC “alerts” sent to breeders, materials published on AKC’s website, and AKC’s lobbying activities over the past five years.

Among the findings:

• Humane organizations have assisted law enforcement in rescuing suffering dogs from large puppy mills whose operators regularly registered dogs with AKC. In just the past six months, this includes three facilities in North Carolina where more than 250 dogs were caged in squalor. Ironically, the AKC’s primary office is located in Raleigh.
• Over the past five years, AKC has opposed more than 80 different state bills and local ordinances designed to provide stronger protections for dogs in puppy mills. The group has opposed landmark measures enacted in Missouri, North Carolina, Oregon, West Virginia, Texas, Washington and other states.
• Since the end of the 1990s, when AKC was facing a boycott of its registry by large-scale, commercial dog breeding facilities, the group has dedicated significant resources to fighting laws that would regulate those facilities.
• In 2012 alone, AKC asked its supporters to oppose laws in several states that would have required puppy producers to comply with basic care standards; legislation in three states that would have prevented the debarking of dogs without a medical reason; an ordinance in a Tennessee town designed to prevent dogs from being left in hot cars; a Rhode Island state bill to prevent people from chaining or crating a dog for more than 14 hours a day; and a Louisiana state bill that would have prevented breeding facilities from keeping dogs in stacked, wire-floored cages.
• AKC has attempted to deflect independent regulation of large-scale breeders on grounds that it maintains an internal kennel inspections program, but standards for the program are unclear and its results unpublished. The HSUS report discloses that some puppy mills had been “inspected” by AKC but were still the subject of law enforcement-led rescues – with facility operators later convicted of animal cruelty on account of the poor conditions of their dogs.
• Most recently, AKC has been lobbying breeders to oppose a proposed U.S. Department of Agriculture rule that would regulate Internet puppy sellers under the federal Animal Welfare Act. AKC’s chair described the regulations as "onerous," even though the proposal includes exemptions for breeders with fewer than five breeding female dogs as well as breeders who sell only to buyers they meet in person.

While the AKC does have beneficial programs such as an annual Responsible Dog Ownership Day and AKC Companion Animal Recovery disaster relief assistance, these make up just a tiny percentage of AKC’s annual outlays. Therefore, the report calls on AKC to distance itself from the large-scale, commercial dog-breeding industry and return to its original focus of representing small, premium, responsible breeders who belong to national breed clubs, participate in dog shows and other events, and have the welfare of their dogs as their top priority.

The report comes a week before the close of the public comment period on the USDA’s retail pet stores rule, a rule designed to ensure that large-scale puppy producers like this one who sell animals online or by mail or phone sight-unseen be regulated just like the producers who sell to pet stores. Concerned citizens can voice their support for the rule at humanesociety.org/usdapuppymills.

Follow The HSUS on Twitter. See our work for animals on your Apple or Android device by searching for our “HumaneTV” app.

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization — backed by 11 million Americans, or one of every 28. For more than a half-century, The HSUS has been fighting for the protection of all animals through advocacy, education and hands-on programs. Celebrating animals and confronting cruelty — on the Web at humanesociety.org.

Significant milestone for national “No Pet Store Puppies” campaign
comes days after USDA’s proposal for more federal oversight of puppy mills

NEW YORK—The ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) today announced that more than 100,000 consumers have taken its “No Pet Store Puppies” pledge to help fight puppy mill cruelty by refusing to shop at pet stores and on websites that sell puppies. The national campaign, launched last July, raises awareness about the connection between pet stores and puppy mills and aims to reduce the demand for puppy mill puppies by urging consumers not to buy any items—including food, supplies or toys—if the store or website sells dogs.

The ASPCA’s “No Pet Store Puppies” campaign reached the 100,000 mark just four days after the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) proposed a new rule calling for greater federal oversight of puppy mills and online dog sales. The rule would, for the first time, require large-scale commercial breeders who sell their puppies directly to the public, sight-unseen, including through websites, to be licensed and inspected by the USDA. The ASPCA will work to ensure that the rule is implemented as effectively as possible to improve conditions at sub-standard breeding facilities.

“The success of our “No Pet Store Puppies” campaign and this significant milestone send a clear message that the public does not support the inhumane breeding of dogs,” said Laurie Beacham, senior director of ASPCA Strategy & Campaigns. “Consumer action is a critical element in the fight against puppy mills, and convincing consumers not to shop for anything at stores and on websites that sell puppies is a powerful tool in stopping the demand for puppy mill dogs.”

In less than a year, the “No Pet Store Puppies” campaign has succeeded in eliminating a large platform for puppy mill dogs sold online. In response to concerns from the ASPCA, Facebook and Oodle, the company that powers Marketplace on Facebook, have instituted measures to restrict online classifieds listing puppy mill dogs for sale from the site. Through an ongoing removal process starting in March, tens of thousands of dog sale ads have already been eliminated.

Further, as part of a major public education campaign, outdoor billboards were posted in Los Angeles, Columbus, (Ohio), and other cities across the nation to raise awareness about the connection between pet stores and puppy mills and encourage shoppers to give a new life to a homeless dog or cat by adopting from their local animal shelter or rescue organization. Targeted ads were also placed online to provide a captivating and simple call to action.

“Our campaign is working because we are educating consumers and inspiring them to take action to be part of the solution and reduce the demand for puppy mill puppies,” said Cori Menkin, senior director of the ASPCA Puppy Mills Campaign. “We continue to urge those who are looking for a new companion to adopt a dog from a rescue group or shelter or seek a responsible breeder so that the puppy mill industry becomes unsustainable.”

The ASPCA continues to encourage animal lovers and advocates to take the pledge and share the new "I pledged" badge on their social networks. Additionally, NoPetStorePuppies.com hosts a series of videos featuring a canine mascot as he skillfully “trains” oblivious consumers not to shop at pet stores that sell puppies. The humorous videos can be shared via social media platforms to engage consumers and help spread the message about puppy mill cruelty.

Operators of puppy mills breed dogs in unsanitary, overcrowded conditions where profit is given priority over the well-being of the dogs. Consumers who purchase a puppy from a pet store or website run the risk of taking home an unhealthy puppy in addition to the likelihood of unknowingly supporting a cruel industry. The ASPCA ultimately seeks to convince pet stores to limit their business to pet supplies and encourages them to partner with their local shelters to offer adoptable pets in their stores.

To learn more about the ASPCA’s No Pet Store Puppies campaign, please visit www.NoPetStorePuppies.com.

About the ASPCA^®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA^® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals^®) is the first humane organization established in the Americas and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animal welfare. More than one million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. The ASPCA, which is headquartered in New York City, offers a wide range of programs, including a mobile clinic outreach initiative, its own humane law enforcement team, and a groundbreaking veterinary forensics team and mobile animal CSI unit. For more information, please visit www.aspca.org.

To become a fan of the ASPCA on Facebook, go to www.facebook.com/aspca. To follow the ASPCA on Twitter, go to www.twitter.com/aspca.

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Tens of thousands of dog sale ads eliminated

NEW YORK—In response to concerns from the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®), measures will be put in place to ensure that puppy mill dogs will no longer be sold via Marketplace on Facebook, an action the ASPCA believes will help combat the inhumane puppy mill industry. Many puppies sold online come from puppy mills and are commonly bred in unsanitary, overcrowded, and often cruel conditions without sufficient veterinary care, food, water, or socialization. As part of its national “No Pet Store Puppies” campaign, the ASPCA worked with Facebook and Oodle, the company that powers Marketplace on Facebook, to restrict online classifieds listing puppy mill dogs for sale from the site. Through an ongoing removal process, ads listing puppy mill dogs have begun to come down this month. The process was designed to allow users to continue posting dogs available for a nominal adoption or rehoming fee.

"Removing an online platform for the cruel puppy mill industry sets a positive example of corporate citizenship and will help improve the lives of countless dogs," said ASPCA President and CEO Ed Sayres. "Most consumers are unaware they are perpetuating animal cruelty by purchasing a puppy online, and given the visibility of Marketplace on Facebook, this move has the potential to raise critical awareness about unscrupulous online breeders.”

While facilities that breed puppies for commercial resale through pet stores are required to be licensed and inspected under the federal Animal Welfare Act, puppy mills that sell directly to consumers via the Internet are exempt from any federal oversight. Unregulated Internet breeders sell tens of thousands of puppies a year to unsuspecting consumers, and the sale of puppies online has been increasing significantly in recent years as more puppy mill investigations are brought to light. Further, the Internet Crime Complaint Center notes that hundreds of complaints are filed every year from victims who are scammed when buying a dog online.

“Consumers who purchase a puppy from a website run the risk of acquiring an unhealthy animal and often end up with expensive vet bills and broken hearts,” said Cori Menkin, senior director of the ASPCA Puppy Mills Campaign. “We hope additional online retailers and classifieds will follow this example and stop providing a platform for puppy mill sales.”

The ASPCA’s “No Pet Store Puppies” campaign aims to reduce the demand for puppy mill puppies by urging consumers to take an online pledge not to buy any items—including food, supplies or toys—from stores or websites that sell puppies. The ASPCA encourages consumers to adopt a pet from a local shelter or rescue, or, alternatively, seek out a responsible breeder.

To learn more about the ASPCA’s campaign to eradicate puppy mills, please visit www.NoPetStorePuppies.com.

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