Wednesday, May 1, 2019
The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources has extended the period during which it will accept comments on proposed regulations for the operation of animal shelters and animal rescue organizations, and amendments to the Commonwealth’s regulations applying to pet stops. The comment period is now open until 5PM, Tuesday, May 7, 2019.
Public health and safety concerns are increasingly presented by interstate dog trafficking that supplies retail shelters and rescues. Diseases recently identified in imported dogs include canine brucellosis, a highly contagious bacterial infection that develops in the reproductive system, or as a sexually transmitted disease.
The American Kennel Club supports policies that seek to provide reasonable oversight of animal shelters and rescues. To review the details of the proposal, visit our prior alert here. A copy of written testimony submitted this week by AKC in general support of these regulations can be viewed here.
WHAT CAN YOU DO:
Massachusetts residents are strongly encouraged to share their thoughts regarding the importance of regulating animal shelter and rescue organizations. Email Michael Cahill, Animal Health Director, at Michael.Cahill@mass.gov with comments before 5pm on May 7, 2019.
For more information, contact AKC’s Government Relations Department at doglaw@akc.org.