Protestors outside the American Kennels pet store on Lexington Avenue in New York City. The protesters decry "puppy mills," which they say are the source of dogs sold at the store. A government report says dogs are dying in 'puppy mills.'
Picture credit: -- J.B Nicholas/ Splash News/Newscom
____________________________________________________________________________
The review, conducted between 2006 and 2008, found that more than half of those who had already been cited for violations flouted the law again. It details grisly conditions at several facilities and includes photos of dogs with gaping wounds, covered in ticks and living among pools of feces.
...Investigators say the Department of Agriculture agency in charge of enforcing the Animal Welfare Act often ignores repeat violations, waives penalties and doesn't adequately document inhumane treatment of dogs. In one case cited by the department's inspector general, 27 dogs died at an Oklahoma breeding facility after inspectors had visited the facility several times and cited it for violations.
...Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said Tuesday that the department takes the report seriously and will force immediate action to improve enforcement, penalties and inspector training.Click title of post for full story.
xoxo