One of the problems is that the legislation treats everyone who breeds-- good or bad-- alike. Under what is being proposed in Indiana I would be considered a "pet dealer" because I sold 5 puppies (I had a litter of 6 totally unexpectedly and kept 1). This would require me to provide my personal information and veterinary records to law enforcement. That is something no one has to do-- identify themselves to police-- unless an officer has probable cause to believe a crime has been committed (and if it is a misdemeanor it would have to be in his presence. Sorry, I am not a criminal suspect because I sold 5 puppies, it is just so stinkin' silly.
Strong leash laws and anti-cruelty laws that apply across the board to someone with 1 pet or many more is all the legislation that is necessary. It happens to be how all the "puppy mills" you hear about being busted are busted. They work.
Also on the issue of spay/neuter, I do not neuter any of my male dogs because it is not beneficial to their health. My females are spayed after they have retired because it is healthier for them. It is simple as wanting what I, in consultation with my vet, thinks is best for my pets. And it isn't really anyone's business but mine if they aren't running around knocking up the neighborhood girls and of course they aren't. Why punish me because someone else won't keep their dogs secured? I just plain don't get it. |