Have you ever wished that your dog could speak and tell you exactly what he wants? Or could explain to you why he is barking, tell you when he is hungry or sick, let you know if he is happy or sad?

But he can’t speak, so you must try to interpret your pet’s vocal sounds and body language in order to understand his wants or needs.

Dogs communicate vocally, on some level. They can make sounds that vary in types and volume from whimpers to barking or growling in order to roughly communicate with humans.

The Sounds: • The whimper – anxiety (I’m upset) • The whine – frustration (can be inadvertently reinforced as an attention-getting behavior) • The growl – get back! • The howl – I can’t find you and I am worried • The bark – greeting barks (excitement/happiness), alarm barks, barking for attention and as a threat .

Because verbal communication with your dog is so limited, interpreting body language is very important. While dogs are experts at sending and receiving body language signals, humans are not so adept. The signs dogs use to communicate with each other are fairly standard and include certain facial expressions, body postures and movements.

The Expression • Direct eye contact – looking for attention or threatening (depending on the situation) • Averted eyes – submission/deference • Looking at an object – to direct the human’s attention to an object

The Head/Neck Posture • Up – paying attention or challenging another • turning away – deference or avoidance • Head held low – submission

The Body Posture • Tense muscles –fight or flight response • Relaxed body– relaxed attitude • Head held low but rear end elevated, tail wagging – Friendliness and the desire to have fun

The Tail

When the tail is up it means the dog is actively interested and confident and attentive; If the tail is tucked, a dog is signaling submission; The horizontal or straight down tail is neutral mood or indifference; The wagging tail reflects the dog’s energy level or level of excitement. Movement • Movement toward a person is designed to get their attention. • Movement away from a person is a defensive move to increase distance.

Although it takes time and work, dogs and people can successfully communicate with each other. If you learn more about your dog’s abilities to communicate with you, you can build a happier and more fulfilling relationship with your pet. The more you can understand what your dog is trying to tell you, the better dog owner you will be!

CHICAGO – Ami Moore has made a name for herself in the Chicago area as a dog trainer who uses unique methods gleaned from her days as a children’s occupational therapist to manage pets’ behavior.

A lover of dogs from an early age, Moore is now exploring another childhood passion.

“Like all girls, I had a mad crush on horses for the first 20 years of my life,” Moore says. “Now, as a mature adult, I have the time to indulge my passion in a new direction – horses healing people.”

In order to learn about the bond which can be formed between horses and humans, Moore has become a charter member of the Equine Experiential Education Association (E3A), an international professional organization designed to provide a traditional training approach to the corporate, educational, coaching and personal development fields using the horse-human connection.

E3A trains professionals who want to use experiential learning activities with horses – known as Equine Assisted Learning – outside of existing special needs or mental health models.

While Moore admits that working with horses is “a new thing” for her, she says she’s found that there are many similarities between working with horses and working with dogs.

“Both animals require you to have ‘alphatude,’ or leadership energy,” she says.

“If the horse or dog senses that you are not pure of heart, they will walk all over you. If a horse walks all over you, it hurts.”

There are plenty of differences between the two animals as well, Moore says.

“Horses are a much more fragile species than dogs,” she notes. “Horses require more space, special facilities – and they’re much more expensive to maintain in optimal health.”

Still, she believes, both animals possess therapeutic powers.

A firm believer that dogs can be used to heal humans – a process she calls “the couch in the kennel” – Moore says horses also have the ability to read humans’ psychological orientation.

Moore will be using the principles she learns as a member of E3A to explore her childhood passion for horses, but she also plans to apply what she learns to her dog coaching profession.

“I am of the belief that the same tools, techniques, and procedures used in the field of equine assisted learning can be adopted for dog-human education, development, learning and coaching.” Ami Moore is a Chicago-based dog behaviorist, dog coach, educator, speaker and author. Visit her Web site at www.dogwhispererchicago.com. And www.amimoore.com. Ami Moore can be reached by calling 847-284-7760.

---

CHICAGO – “As a professional, it is important for me to be aware of signs of potential abuse in order to protect my clients,” says Chicago-based dog behaviorist and coach Ami Moore.

In order to keep abreast of the latest information concerning the link between violence among humans and violence toward animals, Moore recently completed a course called “Protecting People and Pets” – presented by Diana Clement, director of the Humane Society of the United States.

“Those who abuse dogs will often abuse women and children,” Moore noted.

The three-part course illustrated how cruelty to animals often occurs alongside other problems such as maltreatment of children, teen violence, spousal abuse, elder abuse, and aggression in neighborhoods, schools, and communities.

The course was designed for educators, investigators, animal care and control personnel, law enforcement officials, protective service professionals, and other anti-violence workers who hoped to gain fundamental knowledge of the relationship between cruelty to animals and interpersonal violence.

During the course, Chicago leaders discussed resources currently available to individuals and families dealing with domestic violence, along with actions being taken to increase programs to prevent animal violence and violence toward women and children.

Moore has developed a successful career by applying human occupational therapy techniques to the training of dogs. A lifelong dog lover, she has used what she learned during her ten years as a children’s occupational therapist to help dogs who have behavior issues.

Moore’s human clients struggled with disabilities such as attention deficit disorder (ADD) and Down Syndrome, and, through her experiences, she discovered that dogs who have trouble being calm have many things in common with children who have ADD. “My goal is to bring harmony to people and their dogs,” Moore has said. With the knowledge she gained during the “Protecting People and Pets” course, she can now assist in bringing harmony to families as well. Ami Moore is a Chicago-based dog behaviorist, dog coach, educator, speaker and author. Visit her Web site at www.dogwhispererchicago.com or www.chicagodogcoach.com . Moore can be reached by calling 847-284-7760.

---

CHICAGO – “As a professional, it is important for me to be aware of signs of potential abuse in order to protect my clients,” says Chicago-based dog behaviorist and coach Ami Moore.

In order to keep abreast of the latest information concerning the link between violence among humans and violence toward animals, Moore recently completed a course called “Protecting People and Pets” – presented by Diana Clement, director of the Humane Society of the United States.

“Those who abuse dogs will often abuse women and children,” Moore noted.

The three-part course illustrated how cruelty to animals often occurs alongside other problems such as maltreatment of children, teen violence, spousal abuse, elder abuse, and aggression in neighborhoods, schools, and communities.

The course was designed for educators, investigators, animal care and control personnel, law enforcement officials, protective service professionals, and other anti-violence workers who hoped to gain fundamental knowledge of the relationship between cruelty to animals and interpersonal violence.

During the course, Chicago leaders discussed resources currently available to individuals and families dealing with domestic violence, along with actions being taken to increase programs to prevent animal violence and violence toward women and children.

Moore has developed a successful career by applying human occupational therapy techniques to the training of dogs. A lifelong dog lover, she has used what she learned during her ten years as a children’s occupational therapist to help dogs who have behavior issues.

Moore’s human clients struggled with disabilities such as attention deficit disorder (ADD) and Down Syndrome, and, through her experiences, she discovered that dogs who have trouble being calm have many things in common with children who have ADD. “My goal is to bring harmony to people and their dogs,” Moore has said. With the knowledge she gained during the “Protecting People and Pets” course, she can now assist in bringing harmony to families as well. Ami Moore is a Chicago-based dog behaviorist, dog coach, educator, speaker and author. Visit her Web site at www.dogwhispererchicago.com or www.chicagodogcoach.com . Moore can be reached by calling 847-284-7760.

---

CHICAGO – “As a professional, it is important for me to be aware of signs of potential abuse in order to protect my clients,” says Chicago-based dog behaviorist and coach Ami Moore.

In order to keep abreast of the latest information concerning the link between violence among humans and violence toward animals, Moore recently completed a course called “Protecting People and Pets” – presented by Diana Clement, director of the Humane Society of the United States.

“Those who abuse dogs will often abuse women and children,” Moore noted.

The three-part course illustrated how cruelty to animals often occurs alongside other problems such as maltreatment of children, teen violence, spousal abuse, elder abuse, and aggression in neighborhoods, schools, and communities.

The course was designed for educators, investigators, animal care and control personnel, law enforcement officials, protective service professionals, and other anti-violence workers who hoped to gain fundamental knowledge of the relationship between cruelty to animals and interpersonal violence.

During the course, Chicago leaders discussed resources currently available to individuals and families dealing with domestic violence, along with actions being taken to increase programs to prevent animal violence and violence toward women and children.

Moore has developed a successful career by applying human occupational therapy techniques to the training of dogs. A lifelong dog lover, she has used what she learned during her ten years as a children’s occupational therapist to help dogs who have behavior issues.

Moore’s human clients struggled with disabilities such as attention deficit disorder (ADD) and Down Syndrome, and, through her experiences, she discovered that dogs who have trouble being calm have many things in common with children who have ADD. “My goal is to bring harmony to people and their dogs,” Moore has said. With the knowledge she gained during the “Protecting People and Pets” course, she can now assist in bringing harmony to families as well. Ami Moore is a Chicago-based dog behaviorist, dog coach, educator, speaker and author. Visit her Web site at www.dogwhispererchicago.com or www.chicagodogcoach.com . Moore can be reached by calling 847-284-7760.

---

Soy is one of the most dangerous foods to feed your dog or yourself. Soy contains a host of toxi chemicals and hormones that destroy the immune system of people and dogs. Yes, I know that the Chinese eats lots of soy-but they are not the most healthy nor most long lived people on the planet. The two populations that have the longest life span are the French and the Japanese.

Fermented soy products such as Natto, which looks and tastes just like snot and organic soy sauce are okay in moderation. Here is a link: click ere

http://amimoorechicago.blogspot.com/ http://www.largesquare.com/groups/AmiMooreTheProfessionalDogExpert/profile http://www.largesquare.com/people/AAMoore/profile http://www.blackplanet.com/AMIMOORE/

http://www.linkedin.com/pub/2/742/a9b http://www.facebook.com/people/Ami_Moore/1189661648 http://www.squidoo.com/lensmasters/Ask_Ami_The_Dog_Lady http://www.squidoo.com/ExpertDogAdvice http://hubpages.com/profile/amimoore http://twitter.com/amimoore http://www.amimoore.com/ http://blog.k9cuisine.com/experts-corner/ http://chicagodogcoach.com/ http://www.dogwhispererchicago.com/

CHICAGO – “As a professional, it is important for me to be aware of signs of potential abuse in order to protect my clients,” says Chicago-based dog behaviorist and coach Ami Moore.

In order to keep abreast of the latest information concerning the link between violence among humans and violence toward animals, Moore recently completed a course called “Protecting People and Pets” – presented by Diana Clement, director of the Humane Society of the United States.

“Those who abuse dogs will often abuse women and children,” Moore noted.

The three-part course illustrated how cruelty to animals often occurs alongside other problems such as maltreatment of children, teen violence, spousal abuse, elder abuse, and aggression in neighborhoods, schools, and communities.

The course was designed for educators, investigators, animal care and control personnel, law enforcement officials, protective service professionals, and other anti-violence workers who hoped to gain fundamental knowledge of the relationship between cruelty to animals and interpersonal violence.

During the course, Chicago leaders discussed resources currently available to individuals and families dealing with domestic violence, along with actions being taken to increase programs to prevent animal violence and violence toward women and children.

Moore has developed a successful career by applying human occupational therapy techniques to the training of dogs. A lifelong dog lover, she has used what she learned during her ten years as a children’s occupational therapist to help dogs who have behavior issues.

Moore’s human clients struggled with disabilities such as attention deficit disorder (ADD) and Down Syndrome, and, through her experiences, she discovered that dogs who have trouble being calm have many things in common with children who have ADD. “My goal is to bring harmony to people and their dogs,” Moore has said. With the knowledge she gained during the “Protecting People and Pets” course, she can now assist in bringing harmony to families as well. Ami Moore is a Chicago-based dog behaviorist, dog coach, educator, speaker and author. Visit her Web site at www.dogwhispererchicago.com or www.chicagodogcoach.com . Moore can be reached by calling 847-284-7760.

---

CHICAGO – As Chicago lawmakers mull over a law which would require spaying and neutering for all pets over six months of age, local dog expert professional dog behaviorist Ami Moore is on a mission to speak out against the pending ordinance.

Moore close ties with the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association, the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association, the International Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club, the American Dog Owners of America, and independent hobby breeders from around the Chicago area to make sure Chicago aldermen understand the ramifications of a mandatory spay/neuter law before they vote on the issue in September.

Most recently, an editorial composed by Moore was published in the 2008 Spaniel Journal (www.spanieljournal.com). In her article, Moore explains why she has become a “reluctant revolutionary” in the fight against mandatory spay and neuter laws.

“In America … your right to property – your dog – and the ability to use it as you wish – keep it intact – is a right that can’t be taken away or limited by any government on any level,” Moore says in the article. “Even though breed ban laws may be passed … when challenged, all judges that preside in all courts in our country are mandated … to strike down any law that violates your unalienable rights granted by the Constitution.”

Ami Moore, The Chicago Dog Whisperer, continues, “Personally, I am appalled that the extreme so-called ‘animal rights’ groups, animal control officers, and politicians pressure American citizens into needless medical surgery of their dogs and cats. It is a scientific fact that this procedure can increase a dog’s aggressiveness.”

The Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association has backed Moore’s arguments, and has issued its own statement in opposition to Chicago’s pending mandatory spay/neuter law.

“Responsible, properly educated people are already having their pets sterilized when medically prudent,” the statement says.

“It seems inappropriate that a police officer’s time would be devoted to inspecting female dogs for spay scars and checking male dogs for testicles when much more serious offenses are being perpetrated. … This ordinance may seem like a quick-fix for aldermen seeking solutions to challenging problems, but the reality is that it will not fix the problems they are looking to resolve. … Laws should be designed to solve problems, not create more. The Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association recommends that this proposal be allowed to die, and welcomes a chance to help the city and citizens of Chicago and Illinois craft well written, meaningful and thoughtful animal legislation.” Ami Moore is a Chicago-based dog behaviorist, dog coach, educator, speaker and author. Visit her Web site at www.dogwhispererchicago.com and at www. chicagodogcoach.com . Ami Moore can be reached by calling 847-284-7760.

---

CHICAGO – As Chicago lawmakers mull over a law which would require spaying and neutering for all pets over six months of age, local dog expert professional dog behaviorist Ami Moore is on a mission to speak out against the pending ordinance.

Moore close ties with the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association, the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association, the International Kennel Club, the American Kennel Club, the American Dog Owners of America, and independent hobby breeders from around the Chicago area to make sure Chicago aldermen understand the ramifications of a mandatory spay/neuter law before they vote on the issue in September.

Most recently, an editorial composed by Moore was published in the 2008 Spaniel Journal (www.spanieljournal.com). In her article, Moore explains why she has become a “reluctant revolutionary” in the fight against mandatory spay and neuter laws.

“In America … your right to property – your dog – and the ability to use it as you wish – keep it intact – is a right that can’t be taken away or limited by any government on any level,” Moore says in the article. “Even though breed ban laws may be passed … when challenged, all judges that preside in all courts in our country are mandated … to strike down any law that violates your unalienable rights granted by the Constitution.”

Ami Moore, The Chicago Dog Whisperer, continues, “Personally, I am appalled that the extreme so-called ‘animal rights’ groups, animal control officers, and politicians pressure American citizens into needless medical surgery of their dogs and cats. It is a scientific fact that this procedure can increase a dog’s aggressiveness.”

The Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association has backed Moore’s arguments, and has issued its own statement in opposition to Chicago’s pending mandatory spay/neuter law.

“Responsible, properly educated people are already having their pets sterilized when medically prudent,” the statement says.

“It seems inappropriate that a police officer’s time would be devoted to inspecting female dogs for spay scars and checking male dogs for testicles when much more serious offenses are being perpetrated. … This ordinance may seem like a quick-fix for aldermen seeking solutions to challenging problems, but the reality is that it will not fix the problems they are looking to resolve. … Laws should be designed to solve problems, not create more. The Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association recommends that this proposal be allowed to die, and welcomes a chance to help the city and citizens of Chicago and Illinois craft well written, meaningful and thoughtful animal legislation.” Ami Moore is a Chicago-based dog behaviorist, dog coach, educator, speaker and author. Visit her Web site at www.dogwhispererchicago.com and at www. chicagodogcoach.com . Ami Moore can be reached by calling 847-284-7760.

---

CHICAGO - As Chicago city leaders gear up for a vote which will determine whether a mandatory spay and neuter law will take effect there, local dog trainer Ami Moore has made it her goal to convince the city’s aldermen to vote against the proposal.

In late July, Moore attended a meeting at Chicago’s City Hall, expecting to be able to voice her opinion on the pending ordinance. She was surprised, however, to learn that longtime game show host and spay and neuter advocate Bob Barker was going to be given the floor instead.

“I canceled all of my appointments so that I could be at City Hall when the doors opened,” Moore said.

“I was so angry that Bob Barker – a man who is not a resident of Chicago and who, by his own admittance, has absolutely no knowledge of dogs – was allowed to be the first speaker. I live in Chicago, I work in Chicago, and I lost a day’s wages so that I could make my government work for me – and Bob Barker, a D-list celebrity, stole my chance to speak to my elected officials.”

Moore opposes the proposed ordinance for many reasons, but her main objection is that the law would infringe upon the rights of animal owners.

“These laws are unconstitutional,” she said. “The constitution forbids the passage of laws that limit one’s right to life, liberty and property.”

Moore believes a dog or cat can be considered to be a piece of property. Property-owning, she says, is an unalienable right referred to in the United States’ Constitution. Unalienable rights, she argues, can’t be sold or transferred.

“Therefore, any mandatory spay or neuter law is unconstitutional because it violates your unalienable right to keep your property as you wish,” Moore said.

Moore believes pet owners should be free to decide whether to have their pets spayed or neutered – and that veterinarians should not be responsible for enforcing an ordinance established by city government.

Supporters of the proposed law – which would require spaying or neutering of all pets over six months of age – claim that spaying and neutering dogs and cats will help reduce the number of animals euthanized at animal shelters.

“The only method that has reduced the killing of shelter animals is education of the dog and cat owner,” Moore said.

Her opponents are powerful and plentiful, and they include People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and the United States Humane Society – but Moore also has plenty of powerful allies.

The Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association, for example, has recommended that the proposed ordinance be allowed to die – and has offered to help provide better alternatives for animal legislation in Chicago.

“This ordinance may seem like a quick fix for aldermen seeking solutions to challenging problems,” a statement from the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association reads.

“But the reality is that it will not fix the problems they are looking to resolve. This ordinance will, however, create a nightmare for those who have to abide by it – veterinarians, police officers, animal control officials, public health providers and honest law abiding taxpayers. Laws should be designed to solve problems, not create more.”

---

Ami Moore is a Chicago-based dog behaviorist, dog coach, educator, speaker and author. Visit her Web site at www.dogwhispererchicago.com and www.chicagodogcoach.com. Ami Moore can be reached by calling 847-284-7760.

CHICAGO – Two years ago, the City of Chicago passed a law banning restaurants from serving foie gras – a delicacy made from the engorged livers of ducks or geese. In the eyes of many, the law only served to make Chicago a nationwide laughing stock. This year, Chicago aldermen repealed the controversial law in a 37-6 vote.

Now, city leaders are faced with another decision regarding the humane treatment of animals – and, again, both supporters and opponents of the proposed law, which would require all pets over six months of age to be spayed or neutered, are speaking their minds. “I don’t think that most Chicagoans are really aware that this law is as foolish as the anti foie gras law that was recently rescinded,” says Chicago professional dog behaviorist Ami Moore. “Residents need to be aware that we have specific rights, including the right to have the dog we want of the breed we want and the right to keep it intact as long as we are responsible.” Moore is not opposed to spaying and neutering. In fact, many of her own pets have undergone the procedures. “I have always voluntarily altered my dogs and cats for a variety of reasons,” Moore says. “In the good old days, the choice of when to neuter my animals was always left up to my family and myself – not the government.” The proposed Chicago ordinance was written in part by the Humane Society of the United States, an organization Moore claims is a radical animal rights group and is affiliated with PETA. These groups goal is to render all domestic animals extinct. Supporters of the ordinance say mandatory spaying and neutering of pets will reduce the number of unwanted animals in the area and reduce the number of dog fights held by Chicago-area gang members. At the hearing these supporters could not provide any supporting scientific evidence that this ordinance could effectively reach these goals. The Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association (ISVMA) has said, however, “The reality is that it will have no effect on these problems. Instead, it will create some serious public health concerns, cause many animals to be denied necessary health care, and will trample on the personal property rights of conscientious pet owners.” The proposed ordinance implies that the number of dog bites will be reduced as a result of enforcement of the law. However, Moore and the ISVMA say the assumption that only non-spayed or non-neutered animals bite is irrational. Studies have shown that dogs bite humans for a number of reasons, including protection of their own food and anxiety – none of which are directly connected to whether they have been spayed or neutered. “If a dog becomes a danger, then confiscate it and fine the owner,” Ami Moore says. “Punishing the innocent, law-abiding dog owner is unfair.” Ami Moore, backed by the ISVMA, also believes a mandatory spay and neuter law would discourage some pet owners from seeking rabies immunizations. If a pet owner needs to immunize his or her pet, but doesn’t want to spay or neuter the pet, he or she may avoid the veterinarian’s office for fear of being reported. The proposed ordinance further implies that sterilization can create a healthier pet. “There are both positive and negative affects accrued from sterilization,” the ISVMA says. “It appears that benefits outweigh risks, however, there are many breed and individual dog variants, suggesting that professional judgment is required to determine whether and when to neuter/spay pets.” “I am working with several national dog organizations, such as the International Kennel Club, and I am supporting the Illinios State Veterinary Medical Association and the Chicago Veterinary Medical Association in opposing this proposed law,” Moore says. “I am also working closely with several hobby breeders to rally the public to our cause. The bottom line is that testicles don’t bite people-untrained dogs owned by idiots bite people. Educate the dog and the owner and dog bites don’t happen!” Chicago aldermen are expected to vote on the proposed mandatory spay and neuter law in September.

---

Ami Moore is a Chicago-based professional dog behaviorist, dog coach, educator, speaker and author. Visit her Web site at www.dogwhispererchicago.com or www.chicagodogcoach.com. Moore can be reached by calling 847-284-7760.

HSUS/PETA are trying to pass a bill that make it a crime to have your dog and cat live in the same house. Read on-it only gets more ridiculus.

Since Michigan is only a long stone’s throw over the Pond (Lake Michigan) from Chicago (and southwest Michigan can actually be seen from atop Chicago’s Sears Tower observation deck on a clear day) I thought it appropriate to inform everyone here in the Chicago area of the dangerous Michigan bill, House Bill 6395, which was introduced on September 3 2008 by Rep. Caul®, and referred to the Michigan Committee on Agriculture.

Here is the link to the full text of the bill: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2007-2008/billintroduced/House/htm/2008-HIB-6395.htm

http://tinyurl.com/5rc3kr

I’ve included the link here not only because I hope you read it for yourself, but also since the text of this bill will substantiate everything you read in this email – so if you doubt that anything that I or others say about it, just look it up your yourself in the text of this bill.

One reason I’ve decided to send this Michigan-related alert on (even though it doesn’t directly relate to our Chicago Mandatory Spay/Neuter situation) is that is illustrates so clearly that the AR anti-breeder push isn’t just about “puppy mills” (whatever those are, since that’s strictly an AR-defined term), but actually the AR’s anti-breeder push is an attempt to shut down all pet breeding everywhere, especially purebred hobbyists. (And, as you will see from this bill, substandard breeders aren’t the real target either, but rather quality home hobbyists and small rescuers.) No matter if breeding operations are exemplary or substandard, they (and we) are all the same in the eyes of the Animal Rights groups. When you read the following, even if you don’t live in Michigan, please consider how it will affect you…or your fellow club members…or your pets’ breeders…when legislation such as this moves into YOUR state, as it most certainly will if not squarely stopped in Michigan.

No surprise – the HSUS supports this bill, and they got this support statement up rather quickly on their website which makes me suspect they were involved:

http://www.hsus.org/legislation_laws/state_legislation/michigan/pet_dealers.html

http://tinyurl.com/6p6m5u

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (as “with it” as any purebred registry can possibly be on legislative issues involving pets) has this to say about Michigan HB 6395: “This is an extremely detrimental bill – as bad as any State proposal we have seen.”

Read the full CFA Michigan alert here: http://www.cfa.org/exhibitors/alert-MI-HB6395.html

Even the slow-to-get-with-it AKC (who recently couldn’t figure out why a State mandated spay/neuter bill was so bad – everyone remember that??) has issued a strongly worded legislative alert, which states:

“It is imperative that all concerned responsible dog breeders in Michigan contact the members of the House Agriculture Committee, which currently has cognizance of the bill, and their elected Representatives and express their vehement opposition to this bill.”

AKC’s Michigan alert can be found here: http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=3586

For a third article on this Michigan legislation, you can read John Yates’ (American Sporting Dog Alliance) “Michigan Legislation Has Every Dog & Cat Hobbyist In Its Bullseye”: http://caveat.blogware.com/blog/_archives/2008/9/5/3870844.html

In my view and that of many others likewise involved in pet legislation issues, this bill is clearly the work of animal rights extremists and is an attempt to effectively quash all hobby breeding in Michigan by re-classifying hobby breeders (as well as small rescuers) as “pet sellers” with very onerous implications as you can see from the following: This bill would add a new classification type to Michigan law 1969 PA 287, which previously did not regulate those we would normally term “hobby breeders” and “small rescuers”. Previously, this law only regulated pet shops, animal control shelters, and commercial animal dealers. It now includes the new term “pet seller” which is, well, us , if we live in Michigan, and meet the specifications in the following paragraph: Anyone who sells more than two adult animals (cats, dogs, ferrets are all included) OR more than one litter of offspring in a 12-month period would now be automatically be reclassified as a “pet seller”. Therefore, if you had ONE litter which you sold from, AND you sold ONE retired adult show dog you are now a “pet seller”. The number of surviving puppies or kittens from that one litter that you sell isn’t important. Maybe you’ll be lucky and sell eight or even ten puppies or kittens from that litter, maybe you’ll be unlucky and just have a “singleton” litter. It’s apparently all the same under this law, and counts towards your “one litter per year”. Not just the animals you actually sell are included, but even animals you simply just “offer for sale” (but haven’t sold yet) are included in your allotted allowed number of two adults OR one litter. This bill, if passed, would have extremely negative implications for anyone who does rescue, formally or informally. Have just one litter of puppies in a year, and also rescue and place a homeless cat or dog in a year? yep, you’re a “pet seller”. Ditto if you decided (out of the kindness of your heart – how dare you!) to take in your deceased neighbor’s dogs and/or cats (three or more) and place them into good homes (They don’t even have to be your own dogs or cats.) So, even if you’re not a breeder or formal rescuer this law could hit you if enacted. And you’re really in trouble if you take in a stray Momma Cat or Momma Dog and her litter (or that stray female cat or dog you just took in unexpectedly blesses you with a litter). I don’t have to emphasize the fact that “real life situations” like this are completely unplanned, and to punish a Good Samaritan by the high “pet seller license” fee ($200), combined with the criminal background check/fingerprinting etc (and there’s the big question if they could get the license at all), will cause a huge increase in euthanasias for Michigan’s cats and dogs. But don’t think for a moment that the AR extremists are concerned about that! Actually higher euthanasia rates work in ARs’ favor since it will allow them to push for even tougher (anti-owner, anti-breeder) laws in the future. This encourages people to “give away for free” (instead of selling for a fee) puppies or kittens they have unexpectedly, through rescue or an unexpected litter by one of their own animals. We all know the disastrous consequences of encouraging “give away” animals. This just shouldn’t be done. It appears that should you take back a puppy you previously sold and re-home it (since of course you’re a “responsible breeder”, and your contract states that you will take back any puppy or kitten you sell at any time if the buyer can no longer keep it), AND then sell a litter in the same year, you’re a “pet seller”. But again, can you predict such a thing (taking back a cat or dog you sold several years ago) with enough advance notice to obtain a “pet seller” license – and can you even get that license? Well, what must you do to obtain this license? You must apply for a “pet seller license” from the county animal control shelter located in the county where you live. There’s an up-front $200 application fee, for starters. And you must submit fingerprints to the Michigan State Police, and have them also run a criminal background check on you. There’s more: the Michigan State Police must forward your fingerprints to the FBI (Yes, that’s right!) and have the FBI determine any “national criminal history” pertaining to you (Yes, that’s right, again). The report will be sent back to your county shelter (talk about an invasion of privacy…). You will be informed about what’s found on your “history” (but not the details from your history…only your county animal shelter can have those, not you!) Oh, yes, the Michigan State Police are allowed to charge a “reasonable fee” (whatever that is! – not specified) to cover the cost of this criminal background check. (See, we’re ALL criminals in the eyes of the ARs!) And if they find something in your criminal background check that they don’t like, they can deny you the license…but don’t have to inform you as to the details of what was in the criminal background check that caused them to do this (thus, you have no grounds for appeal.) However, the determination of whether to grant you a license is totally up to your county shelter. You don’t have to have a criminal history of any kind to be denied a “pet seller” license; they can deny you “just because”. Since the final determination as to approval of a “pet seller” license is done on a county-by-county system, this approval process can easily become capricious and arbitrary, determined only by the county you live in and their animal control agency’s good will (or lack thereof) towards breeders and rescuers. Since there are to be no set standards to approve or deny these applications on a state-wide basis, should your local county shelter be run by Animal Rights sympathizers, you might see yourself denied that license, no matter how exemplary your hobbyist breeding history or rescue history is. That’s particularly true if these folks just don’t like your breed (are you involved with a Sporting or Hound breed? what about AmStaffs, APBTs, or Rotts??? you just might be “SOL”...) Sale of any pet must be accompanied by a health certificate signed by a licensed state veterinarian. Violate any of the above (take in that Momma Cat and her kittens to place in homes when they’re old enough—and the county finds out – how dare you again! what on earth were you thinking!—) and you are subject to a fine of $500, and you must obtain a “pet seller” license for the $200 fee within 14 days. Needless to say, cat people (especially those who work with rescues and feral cats) are completely outraged over this proposal, since this will lead to a huge spike in cat euthanasias. If you become licensed but you are still zoned in a strictly residential area – will your local municipality grant you the now-necessary variance? A big unanswered question. Now that you’re licensed, you’ll have to make sure you meet the commercial facilities’ Michigan codified standards of care with regards to housing, transport etc of the animals. From the bill: “Sec. 5d. A pet seller shall comply with the rules R 285.151.21 to R 285.151.41 “REGULATION NO. 151. PET SHOPS, DOG POUNDS, AND ANIMAL SHELTERS” of the Michigan Administrative Code that establish standards for housing, care, handling, and transportation of dogs and cats. ” Let’s look these up and see if you can meet them: (SOAHR Administrative Code) http://www.state.mi.us/orr/emi/admincode.asp?AdminCode=Single&Admin_Num=28500151001 http://tinyurl.com/69nzeo

” (4) The interior building surfaces of an indoor housing facility shall be constructed of a nonabsorbent material that may be readily sanitized.” Have any carpeting in your house where your dogs or cats (or ferrets) are occasionally kept? It doesn’t sound like you’d meet the standards.

“(3) Puppies and kittens shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with adult dogs and cats other than their dams.” Have a second adult dog (or cat) in your house along with a litter of pups that isn’t theirs, even if you can adequately keep them separated? You might be in violation if this section is interpreted literally.

“(4) No 2 species of animals shall be housed in the same primary enclosure.”

Happen to own both a dog AND a cat (or ferret), and have them both live in your house, and heaven forbid, interact occasionally? Man, you’re just outta luck again, this is just not acceptable under this code. Guess they consider that inhumane.

“The facility shall be provided with fresh air, either by means of windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning and shall be ventilated so as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. “

I don’t know about you, but I do NOT have a professionally installed ventilation system in my home, and I guess many of you don’t either; sounds to me like that’s required.

And the list goes on from there…Since most hobby breeders and rescuers conduct their pet breeding and rescue activities from their own home, and most home situations cannot meet the above code regulations, it sounds like “home breeding” or “home rescue” will no longer be permitted anymore in Michigan should this pass. Again, don’t think for a minute that this is some kind of technical error that will be quickly remedied. Instead, no doubt it is the full intent of the Animal Rights’ activists who back this type of law to have it carried out just as it is written.

How could anything be worse than this in its negative ramifications for a home breeder or rescuer? But is is…we’re not done yet… What if you (through no intent of your own – remember Momma Cat and her kittens?) should be in violation of any of these above regulations of the SOAHR Code? I’ll quote from the code (and remember that this will now include you, a “pet seller”, should Michigan HB 9395 pass): “R 285.151.37 Confiscation and destruction of animals. Rule 37. If an animal held by a dog pound, animal shelter, or pet shop is found by the director to be suffering as a result of failure to provide proper food and water or inhumane treatment by the management of the dog pound, animal shelter, or pet shop, the director may order the animal confiscated or destroyed in a humane manner, if he determines the circumstances warrant such action.” That’s right – your valuable pets and breeding stock might just be seized and destroyed!

I can’t emphasize enough how dangerous this bill is, to both hobby breeders and small rescuers, in the State of Michigan. The HSUS has great plans to introduce these types of laws in states all over the country, so a vigorous opposition simply MUST be mounted to these types dangerous legislation, not only in Michigan but anywhere else it occurs.

Please forward and cross post everywhere, and especially contact all of your pet-owning friends in Michigan.

Thanks again, everyone.

Margo Milde AKC Legislative Liaison – Rand Park Dog Training Club Inc AKC Legislative Liaison – Agility Ability Club of Illinois Founding Member – Alliance of Chicagoland Pet Owners Health Education Chair – Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of America

Since Michigan is only a long stone’s throw over the Pond (Lake Michigan) from Chicago (and southwest Michigan can actually be seen from atop Chicago’s Sears Tower observation deck on a clear day) I thought it appropriate to inform everyone here in the Chicago area of the dangerous Michigan bill, House Bill 6395, which was introduced on September 3 2008 by Rep. Caul®, and referred to the Michigan Committee on Agriculture.

Here is the link to the full text of the bill: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2007-2008/billintroduced/House/htm/2008-HIB-6395.htm

http://tinyurl.com/5rc3kr

I’ve included the link here not only because I hope you read it for yourself, but also since the text of this bill will substantiate everything you read in this email – so if you doubt that anything that I or others say about it, just look it up your yourself in the text of this bill.

One reason I’ve decided to send this Michigan-related alert on (even though it doesn’t directly relate to our Chicago Mandatory Spay/Neuter situation) is that is illustrates so clearly that the AR anti-breeder push isn’t just about “puppy mills” (whatever those are, since that’s strictly an AR-defined term), but actually the AR’s anti-breeder push is an attempt to shut down all pet breeding everywhere, especially purebred hobbyists. (And, as you will see from this bill, substandard breeders aren’t the real target either, but rather quality home hobbyists and small rescuers.) No matter if breeding operations are exemplary or substandard, they (and we) are all the same in the eyes of the Animal Rights groups. When you read the following, even if you don’t live in Michigan, please consider how it will affect you…or your fellow club members…or your pets’ breeders…when legislation such as this moves into YOUR state, as it most certainly will if not squarely stopped in Michigan.

No surprise – the HSUS supports this bill, and they got this support statement up rather quickly on their website which makes me suspect they were involved:

http://www.hsus.org/legislation_laws/state_legislation/michigan/pet_dealers.html

http://tinyurl.com/6p6m5u

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (as “with it” as any purebred registry can possibly be on legislative issues involving pets) has this to say about Michigan HB 6395: “This is an extremely detrimental bill – as bad as any State proposal we have seen.”

Read the full CFA Michigan alert here: http://www.cfa.org/exhibitors/alert-MI-HB6395.html

Even the slow-to-get-with-it AKC (who recently couldn’t figure out why a State mandated spay/neuter bill was so bad – everyone remember that??) has issued a strongly worded legislative alert, which states:

“It is imperative that all concerned responsible dog breeders in Michigan contact the members of the House Agriculture Committee, which currently has cognizance of the bill, and their elected Representatives and express their vehement opposition to this bill.”

AKC’s Michigan alert can be found here: http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=3586

For a third article on this Michigan legislation, you can read John Yates’ (American Sporting Dog Alliance) “Michigan Legislation Has Every Dog & Cat Hobbyist In Its Bullseye”: http://caveat.blogware.com/blog/_archives/2008/9/5/3870844.html

In my view and that of many others likewise involved in pet legislation issues, this bill is clearly the work of animal rights extremists and is an attempt to effectively quash all hobby breeding in Michigan by re-classifying hobby breeders (as well as small rescuers) as “pet sellers” with very onerous implications as you can see from the following: This bill would add a new classification type to Michigan law 1969 PA 287, which previously did not regulate those we would normally term “hobby breeders” and “small rescuers”. Previously, this law only regulated pet shops, animal control shelters, and commercial animal dealers. It now includes the new term “pet seller” which is, well, us , if we live in Michigan, and meet the specifications in the following paragraph: Anyone who sells more than two adult animals (cats, dogs, ferrets are all included) OR more than one litter of offspring in a 12-month period would now be automatically be reclassified as a “pet seller”. Therefore, if you had ONE litter which you sold from, AND you sold ONE retired adult show dog you are now a “pet seller”. The number of surviving puppies or kittens from that one litter that you sell isn’t important. Maybe you’ll be lucky and sell eight or even ten puppies or kittens from that litter, maybe you’ll be unlucky and just have a “singleton” litter. It’s apparently all the same under this law, and counts towards your “one litter per year”. Not just the animals you actually sell are included, but even animals you simply just “offer for sale” (but haven’t sold yet) are included in your allotted allowed number of two adults OR one litter. This bill, if passed, would have extremely negative implications for anyone who does rescue, formally or informally. Have just one litter of puppies in a year, and also rescue and place a homeless cat or dog in a year? yep, you’re a “pet seller”. Ditto if you decided (out of the kindness of your heart – how dare you!) to take in your deceased neighbor’s dogs and/or cats (three or more) and place them into good homes (They don’t even have to be your own dogs or cats.) So, even if you’re not a breeder or formal rescuer this law could hit you if enacted. And you’re really in trouble if you take in a stray Momma Cat or Momma Dog and her litter (or that stray female cat or dog you just took in unexpectedly blesses you with a litter). I don’t have to emphasize the fact that “real life situations” like this are completely unplanned, and to punish a Good Samaritan by the high “pet seller license” fee ($200), combined with the criminal background check/fingerprinting etc (and there’s the big question if they could get the license at all), will cause a huge increase in euthanasias for Michigan’s cats and dogs. But don’t think for a moment that the AR extremists are concerned about that! Actually higher euthanasia rates work in ARs’ favor since it will allow them to push for even tougher (anti-owner, anti-breeder) laws in the future. This encourages people to “give away for free” (instead of selling for a fee) puppies or kittens they have unexpectedly, through rescue or an unexpected litter by one of their own animals. We all know the disastrous consequences of encouraging “give away” animals. This just shouldn’t be done. It appears that should you take back a puppy you previously sold and re-home it (since of course you’re a “responsible breeder”, and your contract states that you will take back any puppy or kitten you sell at any time if the buyer can no longer keep it), AND then sell a litter in the same year, you’re a “pet seller”. But again, can you predict such a thing (taking back a cat or dog you sold several years ago) with enough advance notice to obtain a “pet seller” license – and can you even get that license? Well, what must you do to obtain this license? You must apply for a “pet seller license” from the county animal control shelter located in the county where you live. There’s an up-front $200 application fee, for starters. And you must submit fingerprints to the Michigan State Police, and have them also run a criminal background check on you. There’s more: the Michigan State Police must forward your fingerprints to the FBI (Yes, that’s right!) and have the FBI determine any “national criminal history” pertaining to you (Yes, that’s right, again). The report will be sent back to your county shelter (talk about an invasion of privacy…). You will be informed about what’s found on your “history” (but not the details from your history…only your county animal shelter can have those, not you!) Oh, yes, the Michigan State Police are allowed to charge a “reasonable fee” (whatever that is! – not specified) to cover the cost of this criminal background check. (See, we’re ALL criminals in the eyes of the ARs!) And if they find something in your criminal background check that they don’t like, they can deny you the license…but don’t have to inform you as to the details of what was in the criminal background check that caused them to do this (thus, you have no grounds for appeal.) However, the determination of whether to grant you a license is totally up to your county shelter. You don’t have to have a criminal history of any kind to be denied a “pet seller” license; they can deny you “just because”. Since the final determination as to approval of a “pet seller” license is done on a county-by-county system, this approval process can easily become capricious and arbitrary, determined only by the county you live in and their animal control agency’s good will (or lack thereof) towards breeders and rescuers. Since there are to be no set standards to approve or deny these applications on a state-wide basis, should your local county shelter be run by Animal Rights sympathizers, you might see yourself denied that license, no matter how exemplary your hobbyist breeding history or rescue history is. That’s particularly true if these folks just don’t like your breed (are you involved with a Sporting or Hound breed? what about AmStaffs, APBTs, or Rotts??? you just might be “SOL”...) Sale of any pet must be accompanied by a health certificate signed by a licensed state veterinarian. Violate any of the above (take in that Momma Cat and her kittens to place in homes when they’re old enough—and the county finds out – how dare you again! what on earth were you thinking!—) and you are subject to a fine of $500, and you must obtain a “pet seller” license for the $200 fee within 14 days. Needless to say, cat people (especially those who work with rescues and feral cats) are completely outraged over this proposal, since this will lead to a huge spike in cat euthanasias. If you become licensed but you are still zoned in a strictly residential area – will your local municipality grant you the now-necessary variance? A big unanswered question. Now that you’re licensed, you’ll have to make sure you meet the commercial facilities’ Michigan codified standards of care with regards to housing, transport etc of the animals. From the bill: “Sec. 5d. A pet seller shall comply with the rules R 285.151.21 to R 285.151.41 “REGULATION NO. 151. PET SHOPS, DOG POUNDS, AND ANIMAL SHELTERS” of the Michigan Administrative Code that establish standards for housing, care, handling, and transportation of dogs and cats. ” Let’s look these up and see if you can meet them: (SOAHR Administrative Code) http://www.state.mi.us/orr/emi/admincode.asp?AdminCode=Single&Admin_Num=28500151001 http://tinyurl.com/69nzeo

” (4) The interior building surfaces of an indoor housing facility shall be constructed of a nonabsorbent material that may be readily sanitized.” Have any carpeting in your house where your dogs or cats (or ferrets) are occasionally kept? It doesn’t sound like you’d meet the standards.

“(3) Puppies and kittens shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with adult dogs and cats other than their dams.” Have a second adult dog (or cat) in your house along with a litter of pups that isn’t theirs, even if you can adequately keep them separated? You might be in violation if this section is interpreted literally.

“(4) No 2 species of animals shall be housed in the same primary enclosure.”

Happen to own both a dog AND a cat (or ferret), and have them both live in your house, and heaven forbid, interact occasionally? Man, you’re just outta luck again, this is just not acceptable under this code. Guess they consider that inhumane.

“The facility shall be provided with fresh air, either by means of windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning and shall be ventilated so as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. “

I don’t know about you, but I do NOT have a professionally installed ventilation system in my home, and I guess many of you don’t either; sounds to me like that’s required.

And the list goes on from there…Since most hobby breeders and rescuers conduct their pet breeding and rescue activities from their own home, and most home situations cannot meet the above code regulations, it sounds like “home breeding” or “home rescue” will no longer be permitted anymore in Michigan should this pass. Again, don’t think for a minute that this is some kind of technical error that will be quickly remedied. Instead, no doubt it is the full intent of the Animal Rights’ activists who back this type of law to have it carried out just as it is written.

How could anything be worse than this in its negative ramifications for a home breeder or rescuer? But is is…we’re not done yet… What if you (through no intent of your own – remember Momma Cat and her kittens?) should be in violation of any of these above regulations of the SOAHR Code? I’ll quote from the code (and remember that this will now include you, a “pet seller”, should Michigan HB 9395 pass): “R 285.151.37 Confiscation and destruction of animals. Rule 37. If an animal held by a dog pound, animal shelter, or pet shop is found by the director to be suffering as a result of failure to provide proper food and water or inhumane treatment by the management of the dog pound, animal shelter, or pet shop, the director may order the animal confiscated or destroyed in a humane manner, if he determines the circumstances warrant such action.” That’s right – your valuable pets and breeding stock might just be seized and destroyed!

I can’t emphasize enough how dangerous this bill is, to both hobby breeders and small rescuers, in the State of Michigan. The HSUS has great plans to introduce these types of laws in states all over the country, so a vigorous opposition simply MUST be mounted to these types dangerous legislation, not only in Michigan but anywhere else it occurs.

Please forward and cross post everywhere, and especially contact all of your pet-owning friends in Michigan.

Thanks again, everyone.

Margo Milde AKC Legislative Liaison – Rand Park Dog Training Club Inc AKC Legislative Liaison – Agility Ability Club of Illinois Founding Member – Alliance of Chicagoland Pet Owners Health Education Chair – Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of America

The same crap that the HSUS/PETA is shoving down our throats here in Chicago is happening in Michigan. They are trying to pass a state bill that is ridiculus. Read this summary and get over to Michigan to give them a hand.

Since Michigan is only a long stone’s throw over the Pond (Lake Michigan) from Chicago (and southwest Michigan can actually be seen from atop Chicago’s Sears Tower observation deck on a clear day) I thought it appropriate to inform everyone here in the Chicago area of the dangerous Michigan bill, House Bill 6395, which was introduced on September 3 2008 by Rep. Caul®, and referred to the Michigan Committee on Agriculture.

Here is the link to the full text of the bill: http://www.legislature.mi.gov/documents/2007-2008/billintroduced/House/htm/2008-HIB-6395.htm

http://tinyurl.com/5rc3kr

I’ve included the link here not only because I hope you read it for yourself, but also since the text of this bill will substantiate everything you read in this email – so if you doubt that anything that I or others say about it, just look it up your yourself in the text of this bill.

One reason I’ve decided to send this Michigan-related alert on (even though it doesn’t directly relate to our Chicago Mandatory Spay/Neuter situation) is that is illustrates so clearly that the AR anti-breeder push isn’t just about “puppy mills” (whatever those are, since that’s strictly an AR-defined term), but actually the AR’s anti-breeder push is an attempt to shut down all pet breeding everywhere, especially purebred hobbyists. (And, as you will see from this bill, substandard breeders aren’t the real target either, but rather quality home hobbyists and small rescuers.) No matter if breeding operations are exemplary or substandard, they (and we) are all the same in the eyes of the Animal Rights groups. When you read the following, even if you don’t live in Michigan, please consider how it will affect you…or your fellow club members…or your pets’ breeders…when legislation such as this moves into YOUR state, as it most certainly will if not squarely stopped in Michigan.

No surprise – the HSUS supports this bill, and they got this support statement up rather quickly on their website which makes me suspect they were involved:

http://www.hsus.org/legislation_laws/state_legislation/michigan/pet_dealers.html

http://tinyurl.com/6p6m5u

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (as “with it” as any purebred registry can possibly be on legislative issues involving pets) has this to say about Michigan HB 6395: “This is an extremely detrimental bill – as bad as any State proposal we have seen.”

Read the full CFA Michigan alert here: http://www.cfa.org/exhibitors/alert-MI-HB6395.html

Even the slow-to-get-with-it AKC (who recently couldn’t figure out why a State mandated spay/neuter bill was so bad – everyone remember that??) has issued a strongly worded legislative alert, which states:

“It is imperative that all concerned responsible dog breeders in Michigan contact the members of the House Agriculture Committee, which currently has cognizance of the bill, and their elected Representatives and express their vehement opposition to this bill.”

AKC’s Michigan alert can be found here: http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=3586

For a third article on this Michigan legislation, you can read John Yates’ (American Sporting Dog Alliance) “Michigan Legislation Has Every Dog & Cat Hobbyist In Its Bullseye”: http://caveat.blogware.com/blog/_archives/2008/9/5/3870844.html

In my view and that of many others likewise involved in pet legislation issues, this bill is clearly the work of animal rights extremists and is an attempt to effectively quash all hobby breeding in Michigan by re-classifying hobby breeders (as well as small rescuers) as “pet sellers” with very onerous implications as you can see from the following: This bill would add a new classification type to Michigan law 1969 PA 287, which previously did not regulate those we would normally term “hobby breeders” and “small rescuers”. Previously, this law only regulated pet shops, animal control shelters, and commercial animal dealers. It now includes the new term “pet seller” which is, well, us , if we live in Michigan, and meet the specifications in the following paragraph: Anyone who sells more than two adult animals (cats, dogs, ferrets are all included) OR more than one litter of offspring in a 12-month period would now be automatically be reclassified as a “pet seller”. Therefore, if you had ONE litter which you sold from, AND you sold ONE retired adult show dog you are now a “pet seller”. The number of surviving puppies or kittens from that one litter that you sell isn’t important. Maybe you’ll be lucky and sell eight or even ten puppies or kittens from that litter, maybe you’ll be unlucky and just have a “singleton” litter. It’s apparently all the same under this law, and counts towards your “one litter per year”. Not just the animals you actually sell are included, but even animals you simply just “offer for sale” (but haven’t sold yet) are included in your allotted allowed number of two adults OR one litter. This bill, if passed, would have extremely negative implications for anyone who does rescue, formally or informally. Have just one litter of puppies in a year, and also rescue and place a homeless cat or dog in a year? yep, you’re a “pet seller”. Ditto if you decided (out of the kindness of your heart – how dare you!) to take in your deceased neighbor’s dogs and/or cats (three or more) and place them into good homes (They don’t even have to be your own dogs or cats.) So, even if you’re not a breeder or formal rescuer this law could hit you if enacted. And you’re really in trouble if you take in a stray Momma Cat or Momma Dog and her litter (or that stray female cat or dog you just took in unexpectedly blesses you with a litter). I don’t have to emphasize the fact that “real life situations” like this are completely unplanned, and to punish a Good Samaritan by the high “pet seller license” fee ($200), combined with the criminal background check/fingerprinting etc (and there’s the big question if they could get the license at all), will cause a huge increase in euthanasias for Michigan’s cats and dogs. But don’t think for a moment that the AR extremists are concerned about that! Actually higher euthanasia rates work in ARs’ favor since it will allow them to push for even tougher (anti-owner, anti-breeder) laws in the future. This encourages people to “give away for free” (instead of selling for a fee) puppies or kittens they have unexpectedly, through rescue or an unexpected litter by one of their own animals. We all know the disastrous consequences of encouraging “give away” animals. This just shouldn’t be done. It appears that should you take back a puppy you previously sold and re-home it (since of course you’re a “responsible breeder”, and your contract states that you will take back any puppy or kitten you sell at any time if the buyer can no longer keep it), AND then sell a litter in the same year, you’re a “pet seller”. But again, can you predict such a thing (taking back a cat or dog you sold several years ago) with enough advance notice to obtain a “pet seller” license – and can you even get that license? Well, what must you do to obtain this license? You must apply for a “pet seller license” from the county animal control shelter located in the county where you live. There’s an up-front $200 application fee, for starters. And you must submit fingerprints to the Michigan State Police, and have them also run a criminal background check on you. There’s more: the Michigan State Police must forward your fingerprints to the FBI (Yes, that’s right!) and have the FBI determine any “national criminal history” pertaining to you (Yes, that’s right, again). The report will be sent back to your county shelter (talk about an invasion of privacy…). You will be informed about what’s found on your “history” (but not the details from your history…only your county animal shelter can have those, not you!) Oh, yes, the Michigan State Police are allowed to charge a “reasonable fee” (whatever that is! – not specified) to cover the cost of this criminal background check. (See, we’re ALL criminals in the eyes of the ARs!) And if they find something in your criminal background check that they don’t like, they can deny you the license…but don’t have to inform you as to the details of what was in the criminal background check that caused them to do this (thus, you have no grounds for appeal.) However, the determination of whether to grant you a license is totally up to your county shelter. You don’t have to have a criminal history of any kind to be denied a “pet seller” license; they can deny you “just because”. Since the final determination as to approval of a “pet seller” license is done on a county-by-county system, this approval process can easily become capricious and arbitrary, determined only by the county you live in and their animal control agency’s good will (or lack thereof) towards breeders and rescuers. Since there are to be no set standards to approve or deny these applications on a state-wide basis, should your local county shelter be run by Animal Rights sympathizers, you might see yourself denied that license, no matter how exemplary your hobbyist breeding history or rescue history is. That’s particularly true if these folks just don’t like your breed (are you involved with a Sporting or Hound breed? what about AmStaffs, APBTs, or Rotts??? you just might be “SOL”...) Sale of any pet must be accompanied by a health certificate signed by a licensed state veterinarian. Violate any of the above (take in that Momma Cat and her kittens to place in homes when they’re old enough—and the county finds out – how dare you again! what on earth were you thinking!—) and you are subject to a fine of $500, and you must obtain a “pet seller” license for the $200 fee within 14 days. Needless to say, cat people (especially those who work with rescues and feral cats) are completely outraged over this proposal, since this will lead to a huge spike in cat euthanasias. If you become licensed but you are still zoned in a strictly residential area – will your local municipality grant you the now-necessary variance? A big unanswered question. Now that you’re licensed, you’ll have to make sure you meet the commercial facilities’ Michigan codified standards of care with regards to housing, transport etc of the animals. From the bill: “Sec. 5d. A pet seller shall comply with the rules R 285.151.21 to R 285.151.41 “REGULATION NO. 151. PET SHOPS, DOG POUNDS, AND ANIMAL SHELTERS” of the Michigan Administrative Code that establish standards for housing, care, handling, and transportation of dogs and cats. ” Let’s look these up and see if you can meet them: (SOAHR Administrative Code) http://www.state.mi.us/orr/emi/admincode.asp?AdminCode=Single&Admin_Num=28500151001 http://tinyurl.com/69nzeo

” (4) The interior building surfaces of an indoor housing facility shall be constructed of a nonabsorbent material that may be readily sanitized.” Have any carpeting in your house where your dogs or cats (or ferrets) are occasionally kept? It doesn’t sound like you’d meet the standards.

“(3) Puppies and kittens shall not be housed in the same primary enclosure with adult dogs and cats other than their dams.” Have a second adult dog (or cat) in your house along with a litter of pups that isn’t theirs, even if you can adequately keep them separated? You might be in violation if this section is interpreted literally.

“(4) No 2 species of animals shall be housed in the same primary enclosure.”

Happen to own both a dog AND a cat (or ferret), and have them both live in your house, and heaven forbid, interact occasionally? Man, you’re just outta luck again, this is just not acceptable under this code. Guess they consider that inhumane.

“The facility shall be provided with fresh air, either by means of windows, doors, vents, or air conditioning and shall be ventilated so as to minimize drafts, odors, and moisture condensation. “

I don’t know about you, but I do NOT have a professionally installed ventilation system in my home, and I guess many of you don’t either; sounds to me like that’s required.

And the list goes on from there…Since most hobby breeders and rescuers conduct their pet breeding and rescue activities from their own home, and most home situations cannot meet the above code regulations, it sounds like “home breeding” or “home rescue” will no longer be permitted anymore in Michigan should this pass. Again, don’t think for a minute that this is some kind of technical error that will be quickly remedied. Instead, no doubt it is the full intent of the Animal Rights’ activists who back this type of law to have it carried out just as it is written.

How could anything be worse than this in its negative ramifications for a home breeder or rescuer? But is is…we’re not done yet… What if you (through no intent of your own – remember Momma Cat and her kittens?) should be in violation of any of these above regulations of the SOAHR Code? I’ll quote from the code (and remember that this will now include you, a “pet seller”, should Michigan HB 9395 pass): “R 285.151.37 Confiscation and destruction of animals. Rule 37. If an animal held by a dog pound, animal shelter, or pet shop is found by the director to be suffering as a result of failure to provide proper food and water or inhumane treatment by the management of the dog pound, animal shelter, or pet shop, the director may order the animal confiscated or destroyed in a humane manner, if he determines the circumstances warrant such action.” That’s right – your valuable pets and breeding stock might just be seized and destroyed!

I can’t emphasize enough how dangerous this bill is, to both hobby breeders and small rescuers, in the State of Michigan. The HSUS has great plans to introduce these types of laws in states all over the country, so a vigorous opposition simply MUST be mounted to these types dangerous legislation, not only in Michigan but anywhere else it occurs.

Please forward and cross post everywhere, and especially contact all of your pet-owning friends in Michigan.

Thanks again, everyone.

Margo Milde AKC Legislative Liaison – Rand Park Dog Training Club Inc AKC Legislative Liaison – Agility Ability Club of Illinois Founding Member – Alliance of Chicagoland Pet Owners Health Education Chair – Staffordshire Bull Terrier Club of America

A DOG SAFE VALENTINE’S DAY

Even though Valentine’s Day is a holiday of romance, roses and chocolate, it is important that you keep the health and welfare of your puppy dog in mind. The biggest health challenge for dogs during the holiday of love is the abundance of chocolate candy. Did you know that chocolate poisoning is the second most common cause of accidental poisonings for dogs?

DOGS AND CHOCOLATE Chocolate contains the chemical theobromine. This chemical is found in the cocoa fat component of chocolate and acts as a stimulant within the dog’s system. Small dogs can be poisoned from smaller amounts of theobromine than large dogs. 1 and ½ ounces of dark chocolate or Baker’s Chocolate can be a lethal dose for a small dog.

Each variety of chocolate has a different level of theobromine. White chocolate has the least amount of theobromine, about 1 mg per ounce. Milk chocolate, the most common kind of chocolate, contains 65 milligrams of theobromine per ounce, semisweet chocolate contains 165 mgs and baking chocolate has about 400mg. All kinds of chocolate have the potential to make your dog ill.

THEOBROMINE-NOT FOR DOGS When you or your dog eats chocolate, the theobromine is rapidly absorbed from the stomach and intestines into the bloodstream. It’s carried to all parts of the body and is eventually metabolized by the liver and then eliminated in the urine.

Unfortunately, dogs have a very difficult time metabolizing theobromine; it takes approximately 15 to 20 hours for a dog to eliminate one-half of the theobromine consumed from its body. However, it only takes 5 hours for your body to dump the excess theobromine from your system.

THEOBROMINE STIMULATES DOGS Theobromine, like caffeine, acts as a stimulant. It directly affects the heart and can cause an extreme increase in heart rate, an increase in blood pressure, as well as irregularities in the heart rhythm. This is why people find chocolate so irresistible, chemically it mimics the feeling of infatuation by causing rapid heartbeat, hyperactivity, flushing of the skin. Chocolate makes us feel like we are in love.

DOGS AND CAFFEINE DO NOT MIX Unfortunately, the canine central nervous system is negatively stimulated by theobromine. Excessive chemical stimulation can result in nervousness, restlessness, insomnia, tremors, and even seizures. Stimulation of the central nervous system can increase respiration, increase panting, and induce nausea, and vomiting. Theobromine acts a diuretic causing large amounts of body fluid are lost by urination, which can lead to dehydration.

DOGS AND TOO MUCH CHOCOLATE Within two to three hours of consuming a toxic dose of chocolate, the dog will appear excited, agitated or nervous; may exhibit polydipsia; and may vomit. Within 8-10 hours, the dog may be extremely hyperactive, have difficulty walking, may develop seizures and ultimately may fall into a coma and die.

Watch for the following symptoms of chocolate poisoning: • Excessive drooling • Excessive urination • Pupil dilation • Excessive panting • Rapid heartbeat • Vomiting and diarrhea • Pale gums • Hyperactivity • Muscle tremors and seizures

WHAT IF YOUR DOG LOOKS SICK? So what do you do if you find that your dog has gotten into your gift basket of chocolate? If your dog consumed only a small amount of white or milk chocolate, he may not require treatment. Any dog that is exhibiting symptoms of chocolate toxicosis must be treated immediately.

Treatment usually involves the administration of emetics, to make the dog vomit; activated charcoal, to bind theobromine in the stomach and limit its reabsorption into the bloodstream; intravenous or subcutaneous fluids prevent dehydration, and sedatives such as valium, to control seizures.

DOGS NEED LOVE TOO-BUT NOT CHOCOLATE An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure during the most romantic time of the year, Valentine’s Day. If you follow the following guidelines, you will be able to protect your dog from temptation.

1. Always place chocolate on a high counter, in a cabinet or in the refrigerator.

2. If you are a pet parent that likes to share your goodies with your dog, purchase some dog friendly Valentine treats such as carob cookies or carob candy especially made for the canine body.

3. If you are having a party at your house make sure that all liquor and chocolates are placed on a high counter or are always under the watchful eye of a sober bartender.

4. Most importantly double check your kitchen and eating floor and counter for any forgotten chocolate contraband before you turn in for the night.

This article was written by Ami Moore, Director of Training for Doggie Do Right 911, Inc. located in cold and wintery Chicago, Illinois. The city of Chicago was recently voted on of the most dog friendly cities in the United States. Contact Ami Moore through her websites www.amimoore.com, www.dogtrainingchicago.com and www.dogtrainerchicago.com .

KEYWORDS: Ami Moore, Chicago Big Dogs, Ami dog trainer Chicago, Ami Chicago dog trainer, Ami Moore puppy trainer Chicago, Chicago puppy trainer, Puppy dog, toy dogs, small dogs, big dogs, Ami Moore puppy potty training, puppy paper training, potty problems and Ami Moore, Chicago puppy potty problems, Ami Moore and Chicago puppy training, Ami Moore and dog training in Chicago.