Michael Markarian: Animals & Politics

You Asked

Today I’d like to respond to some questions and comments that readers have sent me.

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In response to Oprah’s show on puppy mills:

Just watched the program on Oprah about puppy mills and I was horrified. How can this be allowed to go on? I thought that there were laws against cruelty to animals. —Denise R.

Denise, you are right that all 50 states have anti-cruelty statutes, but these laws have rarely been applied to puppy mills. Most puppy factories are in rural locations with farmers raising dogs on the side, and some law enforcement officials regard the animals as livestock, not pets. But with the increased awareness of puppy mills in recent years, there have been several arrests and raids in states like Maine, Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia. Even though cruelty laws exist, we must pass specific reforms to restrict the mass breeding of dogs at commercial factories. Twenty states are considering legislation this year to crack down on puppy mills, and it’s important that your state lawmakers hear from you.

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In response to Washington Governor Christine Gregoire allowing the increased hound hunting of cougars:

I am completely disgusted at the fact that my governor went against the wishes of her constituents and signed this bill into law. This is not the way to handle an overpopulation problem, not that I even think there is a cougar overpopulation. I blogged about this on my blog as well and linked to you. Thanks for bringing attention to this matter Michael. —Billy

Billy, thank you for spreading the word. Since Governor Gregoire expanded the hound hunting of cougars, there has been even more attention to this reckless policy. Seattle Times science reporter Sandi Doughton wrote in her article “Is cougar hunting breeding chaos?” that stepped up hunting is not solving cougar conflicts, but in fact is making the problem worse. And Liza Gross wrote in her High Country News feature, “Cougars in chaos,” that Washington’s outdated hunting policy is pushing big cats to the brink of extinction. It’s time for lawmakers to recognize that sound science and humane solutions should trump trophy hunting interests.

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In response to the presidential candidates' comments on the beef recall following the investigation at California slaughter plant:

In reading both Clinton’s and Obama’s statements regarding the cruelty to sick cows and tainted meat, I am not happy with either one’s reply and neither should the Humane Society be happy with them as they mainly speak of the health threat to humans and not enough if any emphasis on the horrible treatment of animals! Wasn’t that your point in posting these statements? —Donna R.

Donna, I do believe it’s important to acknowledge the candidates when they speak out on issues related to animal welfare. Hillary Clinton said in a statement that she “will crack down on the slaughter of sick or injured cows” and commented at a Wisconsin campaign stop on “sick and downed animals being pushed forward with bulldozers.” Barack Obama said in a statement, “I commend the Humane Society of the United States for bringing this important issue to the public attention and believe that the mistreatment of downed cows is unacceptable.” Animal issues are making their way into the presidential debate, and it also speaks to the broader issue of connectivity and the link between the fortunes of animals and ourselves. In this case, because animals were abused in such horrible ways, food safety and human health were also put at risk.

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If you have a question about HSLF, offer a comment through the blog or email your query. I may post it in a future blog.

You Asked

Today I’d like to respond to some questions and comments that readers have sent me.

Please tell me when the legislative event in Virginia this year is? I thought I saw it online, but cannot find it now. It was July 21 or close to that. Thank you. —Gloria D.

Gloria, you’re referring to Taking Action for Animals, the nation’s largest conference for animal advocates. It will be held this year during the weekend of July 19-21, in Arlington, Virginia. I hope you will join me in the nation’s capital for keynote sessions, training workshops, more than 50 exhibitors, a Lobby Day on Capitol Hill, and much more. The program is still in formation, but the banquet dinner will feature comedian Carol Leifer, U.S. Congressman Earl Blumenauer (D-Ore.), other leading animal advocates, and entertainment by the Capitol Steps. Check here for updates on the program and registration.

What about the news that South Dakota is willing to help with the start-up of horse slaughter plants within the state? —Melanie W.

Melanie, there was a bill in the South Dakota state legislature that would have provided a $1 million state loan to construct a new horse slaughter plant. Fortunately, this misguided and fiscally irresponsible bill appears to be dead. The Humane Society of the United States hired a lobbyist in South Dakota and sent out alerts on the issue, and lawmakers responded. All horse slaughter plants in the U.S. have been shuttered because Texas and Illinois have banned horse slaughter, and Congress has de-funded federal inspections of horse meat for human consumption. Even the South Dakota Department of Agriculture opposed the industry loan because the legality of horse slaughter is uncertain, and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development questioned where the funds would come from. You can read more in this Associated Press article.

I find it appalling that you would ask that a call be made to Senator Nelson or to Senator Martinez to ask them to help with anything to stop animal cruelty when neither one of them signed the bill S. 311 sponsored by Mary Landrieu or the supporting bill H.R. 503 which closes our borders to shipping horses to Mexico and Canada for the purpose of slaughter for human consumption. Especially to Mexico where horses are stabbed in the neck until paralyzed, but not dead, then hung by their back legs, then have their throats slit and let bleed to death. Also, horses have to stand on that truck for hours in shipment to Mexico or Canada and wait in lots for days with no food or water or medical treatment in horrible pain and filthy conditions. This is what Senator Nelson and Senator Martinez would not vote against. How could you ask anyone to associate them with NON-CRUELTY?! —Carolyn B.

Carolyn, it’s important to note that both your U.S. Senators from Florida, Bill Nelson and Mel Martinez, supported the pro-animal position and voted to stop horse slaughter in 2005 the last time the issue came to the Senate floor. They sided with more than two-thirds of Senators who approved legislation to stop funding inspections at horse slaughter plants. The fact that they’re not co-sponsors of the new bill doesn’t mean they don’t support the right policy. But it’s also the fact that they are not co-sponsors that means we can’t take their votes for granted. It’s especially important that they hear from citizens who care about protecting horses, so they know their constituents want them to maintain their support for ending horse slaughter. Please contact your U.S. Representative and two U.S. Senators today, and ask them to put a stop to the cruel exports of horses for human food.

I think that the president should adopt a homeless animal in order to set a good example for the rest of the country. Too many shelter animals are killed. —Ellie

Ellie, I couldn’t agree with you more. As I wrote in my blog about presidential pets, when it comes to spaying and neutering, veterinary care, and related topics, the power of a president’s example as a responsible caregiver can be significant. Most presidents have had pets in the White House, and we hope the next president will send a strong, humane message by adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue group.

If you have a question about HSLF, offer a comment through the blog or email your query. I may post it in a future blog.

Talk Back: Puppy Mills and Politics

Readers have had much to say about recent posts concerning puppy mills and the importance of knowing where the 2008 Republican and Democratic presidential candidates stand on animal protection. Here are some of the comments we've received:

On puppy mills:

I see no reason whatsoever to allow the import (or export for that matter) of animals. Having helped out at a shelter for homeless pets, watching them stand in crates at the PetSmart trying to get adopted, is heartbreaking! Why allow more animals in, regardless of their breed. We have so many here in the U.S. that need good homes! It should not be allowed whether they are 6 weeks or 6 months. How can people be so selfish and uncaring? Why must they have a "pure breed" or some unusual, $10,000 pet? Whats wrong with the beautiful rescue or the stray that no one wanted? Just look into their eyes...! Let's start here, in the U.S. by finding homes for the millions that need them. Tear apart the puppy mills, end the torture and abuse, and find loving homes here. No need to fly or ship in more poor animals!
—Sherry 

I have long thought that if newspapers would refuse to take ads from dog breeders the money these breeders make would be cut in half, maybe even more. Unless you hit these foul persons in their pockets, puppy mills will exist. People who buy these animals are as much to blame as the breeders. At least for the breeders is the money, however, for the buyer is is stupidity and snob appeal. The Houston Chronicle's "Dogs for Sale" columns triple during the Christmas season. Every fool out there is looking for a Christmas puppy. How incredibly sad. And unfortunate shelter puppies sit and wait... and wait. —Adele

As a former dog breeder of Shih-Tzus, I first became acquainted with puppy mills in the state of Florida. I was very particular of the home and evironment that I placed my puppies. Even with all the care I took requiring references, etc. Three of my puppies ended up in a puppy mill as breeders. Fortunately, I had a gentlemen who purchased one of them and ultimately purchased the other two siblings. He immediately, through the AKC, contacted me. My dogs were absolutely in horrible condition. Two of them did not make it as they were actually bred to death and lack of health care. Happily one of them did survive and was kept for the rest of her life in loving care. With the two of us working together and filing complaints we did eventually get that puppy mill shut down. Please, whether a breeder or private, support any legislation against puppy mills by your vote and/or financial support. These places are deplorable and the animal cruely is unimaginable. —J

On the 2008 presidential candidates:

Certainly, these are questions deserving of a direct response from the candidate. Additudes toward animal welfare can, and should be,a consideration as we choose our leaders, and formulate pressures on how our society reflects on these issues. —Peter

It's great that you will be posting the views of the presidential candidates on animal rights/humane issues. It's about time we know where the candidates stand on such matters. We need, in this country, not only a compassionate president, but more federal congressional members as well as individual state representatives and senators who care as deeply about animals in addition to other issues. And unquestionably, the laws need to be not only signed into law, but unless they are strongly enforced as well, they don't mean anything!  —Joanna

We need compassionate political leaders that regard all life as special and worth fighting for. We need to stop the endless cruelty in our country of children and animals, and it starts with animals. Get rid of politicians that have no compassion. More and more people are joining the fight against cruelty and the politicians need to be aware that "we are mad as hell and we are not going to take it anymore" and if they want our vote, they need to take a stand. They need to witness first-hand the suffering endured from dog fighting, puppy mills, horse slaughter, experimental labs, etc. —Jean

Talk Back: Huckabee's Record

Last night, I hosted a meeting of about 50 animal advocates in Des Moines, Iowa, at the fantastic Animal Rescue League South adoption center.  Iowa is only two weeks away from the nation’s first presidential caucuses, and voters in that state have a unique opportunity to influence the presidential candidates on animal protection issues.

They also have a unique opportunity to shape federal animal welfare policy, as one of their Senators, Tom Harkin, is Chairman of the Agriculture Committee—which has just passed several animal welfare provisions in the Farm Bill—and the other, Charles Grassley, is Ranking Member of the Finance Committee.  We had a great and lively discussion about the importance of Iowa citizens getting involved in legislative and political advocacy for animals.

But you don’t have to live in Iowa to have a voice on these matters.  Many readers wrote in response to my columns on the presidential candidates—specifically the posting on Mike Huckabee—and here’s a sampling of the comments we received:

I am urging all of you out there to email your favorite news channel and ask them to investigate these allegations. Let them know that the voting public takes this issue seriously. We animal-lovers are an extensive network, and we should do our part by forwarding this HSLF newsletter to all our contacts. —Kelly 

I am outraged that you would use the actions of a son to do a political hit on anyone. This action makes me ashamed that someone in the leadership Humane Society (a group I support) would rationalize hitting a candidate based the actions of their son. Keep the focus on the candidate's own actions. —Larry

I appreciate your call to arms for people of faith. My belief is that animals are a treasured part of God's creation and that one of the ways in which we are called to be "good stewards" is by protecting their welfare. That a governor and former pastor can display such an utter lack of compassion, coupled with clearly questionable values, seems to be an indication of a much deeper social problem. In my opinion, someone like this should not even be in office, but unfortunately, politicians are often corrupt and self-interested. Protecting the welfare of animals is just a step toward a better global community. Thanks for keeping up with your blog! —Tara

If I can't trust him with my dog, how can I trust him with my country? —Jeannie

Well, if Huckabee thinks that animal cruelty is not worth a more severe punishment then I guess he stands the same when it comes to child or spouse abuse because that is what usually follows animal abuse. The offender begins with the animals then moves on to more interesting prey. THAT is the sad part. If you try to nip it in the bud you have a better chance of preventing further abuse but he doesn't care. So sad. —Gena

A nation's greatness is measured by its humanity toward the weak and helpless, such as its elderly, children and animals. Politicians who would stand silent on the issues of protection for children and animals are not fit to serve the public. We need leadership with compassion not a passion for blood sport. Thank you for uncovering the true Mike Huckabee. —Michele

I absolutely agree that cruelty to animals must be prosecuted and punished severely and never tolerated or looked upon with apathy. People who respect other living beings respect other people, show compassion and concern. Animals have just as much a right to be on this planet as humans. Humans are not the all mighty know it all, more important species on this earth. —Mary-Frances

I do not believe that many things that a child does is a direct result of his upbringing, but I do believe one's attitude about life and respect of all creatures IS!! A parent may teach some values that the child may choose not to follow but do any of you know someone with a moral upbringing who would torture an animal?? NO, is the answer. In my opinion, an apology is not going to make a difference. Can he truly say that his child didn't develop his disrespect of life from the people who have the most influence, the parents? —Jenell

Welcome To 'Animals & Politics'

In May, my colleague Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States, launched a new blog called “A Humane Nation.” I questioned whether he would really have the time to write a blog, given his hectic travel schedule and all his other duties for The HSUS.  But, he proved me wrong, and for the past seven months has been posting original entries every weekday, and that keeps HSUS members and staff up to date and up to speed on the fast-changing issues the humane movement confronts. By my count, he posted nearly 200 personal entries already, and it’s a chronicle of the The HSUS’s progress and challenges.

So here I am, inspired to start my own blog for the Humane Society Legislative Fund. I won’t attempt to blog daily, as Wayne does, but I do promise to keep it timely and relevant, and to offer two or three items each week. You may ask yourself why we need another blog, and believe me, I’ve asked myself the same question.  But I’m convinced that it’s worth my time, and I hope it’s worth some of your time, too.

That’s because HSLF has a unique and critical role to play in the animal protection movement—a legislative and political role. We are one of the few humane groups that can spend considerable resources passing state and federal laws for animals, winning ballot measure campaigns to stop cruel practices, and helping to elect humane candidates and defeat lawmakers who oppose animal welfare.  We aim to usher in a whole new era of legislative and political advocacy for animals. 

In the last couple years, we went head-to-head with the NRA in Michigan—one of the biggest hunting states in the country—and we defeated a measure that would have allowed a target shooting season on mourning doves.  We went head-to-head with the agribusiness industry in Arizona, and we passed a measure banning the cruel confinement of animals on industrial factory farms.  We passed bills in Congress to crack down on dogfighting and cockfighting, protect pets in disasters, and shut down a trophy hunting tax scam.  We passed laws that will finally end cockfighting in Louisiana and New Mexico, the last two states where it was legal.  We waged campaigns against some of the worst members of Congress—like Richard Pombo and Conrad Burns—and helped send these ultra-hostile lawmakers packing.   

But this coming year will be even bigger.  We have major battles in Congress to stop horse slaughter, puppy mills, and other abuses.  The humane movement will wage perhaps one of the biggest fights in recent times—statewide ballot campaigns to ban veal crates for calves, gestation crates for breeding pigs, and battery cages for egg-laying hens in two of the biggest agricultural states in the country, which could impact the lives of 4 million animals in Colorado and 20 million animals in California. And over the next few months, we will see state primaries and caucuses narrowing the field in what could be one of the most exciting presidential elections in years. All 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, a third of the seats in the U.S. Senate, and hundreds of seats in state legislatures and governor’s mansions will be decided.

In this blog, I will aim to keep you updated on these efforts, and give you an insider’s look into the legislative and political processes. I hope to profile the lawmakers and advocates who are doing good work for animals, and challenge those who are harming animals. I will offer commentary on what’s happening in the news, what’s happening in Congress and state legislatures, and what’s happening on the ballot.  I welcome your comments, and hope that you’ll join the conversation.