[Nikki+2]

Originally Posted by SweetViolet

Does the proposed law give any criteria for obtaining a breeding permit? Because if it doesn't, this won't do anything to eliminate puppy mills. Absent a requirement for a site inspection...and regular re-inspection...the mill owners will simply get a breeding license and may even use that as a sales technique "Licensed by the State of Florida."

If the cost of the breeding permit is high, that can also benefit puppy mills as it can effectively limit the number of hobby breeders who can't afford the permit. I understand the intent is probably to reduce the number of accidental breedings among the general dog population, but I'm not sure this is the best way to go about it.

You are right- this most likely won't put a big dent in puppy mills. Fortunately they aren't as big of an issue for FL as they are in many states. This bill is written to cut back on the animals being euthanized in shelters. You can read the bill in the link I provided to see what it is actually for.

Originally Posted by Lee B

I believe THIS is exactly what this proposed law is designed to do: force responsibiity on those who will not voluntarily take it on themselves.

Please remember that our pure-breds, regardless of whether they come from responsible breeders or puppy mills, are still just a FRACTION of the total dog population.

This bill is NOT designed to penalize responsible ownership or breeders; it is NOT designed to force neutering on puppies who are too small for surgery. There are provisions that provide sufficient loop-holes.

Too many people won't do the right thing unless they're compelled to do so. There *are* low cost neutering clincs run by people who want to help people "do the right thing". Maybe there are no expenisve pre-surgical blood panels performed, but responsible surgical procedures are followed, including anaesthesia and pain meds. These clinics are often run on weekends so owners don't even have to miss time from work. But they (the owners) still fail to take advantage, for whatever reason.

I have read MANY proposed laws of this nature; Florida's is probably one the most reasonable posed. It has all the loopholes needed to not be oppressive or repressive.

Read it again: this requires a logical - not visceral - reaction. And remember: if ALL pet owners were as responsible as we try to be, laws of this nature wouldn't even be needed.

There are a lot of options in FL- we have very good animal laws and animal care compared to many states. There is an entire veterinary clinic in my town that caters soley to low income families in addition the the free and low cost clinics offered regularly.