Advocacy Summer Updates

Stop Puppy Mills!

Hearing scheduled! On July 22, the legislature’s Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee will hear testimony on S. 175, a bill that prohibits the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits from pet shops (unless the animals come from shelters or rescue organizations). Pet shops typically acquire their dogs and cats from inhumane commercial breeding facilities, often called “puppy mills” or “kitten mills,” and are a preferred sales outlet for these mills because they allow conditions to remain hidden from consumers. Learn how you can help by attending the hearing and lobbying your legislators.

Hot Weather Safety for Animals

As the summer heats up, remember that animals can be very sensitive to high temperatures, which means it’s critically important to monitor pets and provide them with plenty of shade and water. Try to walk your dog on softer ground such as dirt trails or grass instead of hot blacktop or cement sidewalks, which can burn paws. And above all else, do not leave your pet in a hot car! Your pet could be in danger even on a moderately hot day with the windows cracked. The MSPCA was instrumental in passing a law to help prevent these tragedies. Learn what you can do if you see a pet in a hot car.

PAWS II Drowning Prohibition Takes Effect

It’s been almost a year since PAWS II (An Act to Protect Animal Welfare and Safety) was signed into law. One part of this omnibus bill outlawed the drowning of all animals, wild and domestic, and the portion relating to state-licensed problem animal control agents (PACs) just took effect on June 1. Drowning has been determined to be inhumane by the American Veterinary Medical Association—an unacceptable means of euthanasia. This is a significant step forward for animal protection in the Commonwealth. Read more.

Did you know that the Massachusetts State House is FULL of animal lovers? We know this by the abundant number of bills filed each session to protect animals. But if that doesn’t convince you, just check out State House Pets! Dogs, cats, chickens, you name it—legislators have all types of pets! See if your legislators live with furry friends, just like you!

Police K9 Protection Bills Get Hearing

S. 1431 and H. 2037, commonly referred to as “Nero’s bills,” will be heard by the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee on July 18. While not identical, both of these bills would allow a law enforcement dog injured in the line of duty to be transported in an ambulance if there is not competing need for human transport. These bills are in response to the tragic incident in Yarmouth last year, where Sergeant Sean Gannon was killed in the line of duty, and his K9 partner, Nero, was also seriously injured. Because of current law, Nero had to wait before he could be driven to an emergency veterinary hospital. Learn more about Nero’s story, and how these bills protect K9 officers.

PAWS II Work on Animal Abuse Reporting Continues

The PAWS II bill created a commission to evaluate the possibility of mandating the reporting of animal abuse by certain professions. Currently, some professions (doctors, police, etc.) are required to report abuse of people (such as child or elder abuse). This commission is considering the importance of reporting animal abuse, as well. Extensive scientific evidence documents the link between animal abuse and violence toward humans. By working across agencies, we can prevent harm to all family members. Read more.

Speaking Out for Wildlife

On June 25, animal advocates made a strong showing in defense of wildlife before the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture Committee. The majority of people present at the hearing provided passionate testimony against lifting the Sunday hunting ban; against bear baiting, moose hunting, and spotlighting; and against rolling back provisions against cruel and unnecessary trapping. Learn more and contact your legislators to tell them that you oppose these bills, especially if they sit on the Environment Committee!