Some people have written in expressing their disapproval of HB1468. But from what I read, they have false information.
Dixie Nichols said that the USDA already inspects dog breeders and that we don't need anyone else regulating them. The USDA only inspects those that sell wholesale (i.e. to pet stores). So those who sell online or through other media (which is the majority of large-scale breeders in our area of the state) have absolutely no oversight. She was also concerned that a "pet dealer" under this bill would have many regulations. A pet dealer would have only one requirement: keeping records. That's it! There is much misinformation out there going around about this bill. Please read it for yourself at http://www.in.gov/legislative/bills/2009/HB/HB1468.1.html
"Microchips required on all puppies" is not in the bill. It was in the original language, but has been dropped. So that is not an issue. In fact, all of the points that you brought up are not an issue with this bill. Anyone who breeds responsibly will not be affected by this bill. It is actually for the protection of good breeders.
Do you want to compete with the scores of puppies being sold out of puppy mills? Reputable breeders should want to see puppy mills shut down. They are a disgrace to excellence in breeding. Please support HB1468. It is for your protection as well as the breeds that you raise. Those pushing for HB 1468 are not against breeding - if we didn't have good breeders, we would no longer have the wonderful purebred dogs that we've come to know and love. The sole purpose of HB 1468 is to eliminate the dark, ugly existence of mass breeders (i.e. puppy mills).
This bill passed the House Committee by a 10-1 vote. It passed the House with only 14 "Nay" votes out of 100. It has received tremendous bipartisan support. The attorney general testified for this bill. Veterinarians testified about the need for this bill. A highly respected reputable breeder helped with the language of this bill, and more breeders will be involved as this bill proceeds and is fine tuned.
Indiana has a dark, ugly secret that needs our attention. HB1468 will provide regulations to ensure that puppy mill dogs will not be neglected or mistreated. Please contact your state senator as soon as possible and ask him/her to vote yes to this bill.
