Bark Forward

The time to speak is NOW! Every day someone, somewhere is targeting dogs. While I continue to believe that the vast majority of people love animals - it is just that those who don't - are speaking much louder; carrying a much larger stick; and doing their best to take away our rights to love an enjoy our dogs.

We have those who want to tell us how to train our dogs; how many dogs we can have; when they can bark; how they should be housed; if they should be crated or not; how much land we need to have a dog; and laws that are chipping away at our very "right" to own and enjoy our dogs.

So where are all the animal lovers? Are they aware that the rights as a pet owner are being erroded by their elected official - driven by HSUS and PETA. The Humane Society of the United States wants us all to believe that they know what is best for every animal on this planet. So how much do you know about HSUS? Do you donate - believing that your dollar goes to help the animals. Have you ever tried to find their "shelter" for animals? They don't have one, so stop looking. Call your local animal control and breed rescues and ask them how much money they received from HSUS for taking victims of Katrina - or any other disaster that they proudly post on their website to detach you from your money. By the way, while you are on the phone to HSUS - ask them how many animals they kill a year.

Then there is PETA - People fo the Ethical Treatment of Animals. Go to their website and play their videos and read their stories and tell me that you support them and their ideals.

Now what does HSUS and PETA have to do with you? These two groups are the primary drivers to separate you from your animals. They have the ear of your local; and state political representatives - who write the laws to take away your rights to own; train; house; and love your animals. Scary? You bet.

All across this nation, in your town and in mine. Laws are being written with a whole host of perils. Most of the "new ordinances/laws" give animal control the right to break down your door; take your animals - and you have NO recourse. They tell you how many animals you can have; what breed they can be; that they must be sterilized; and taxed.

Your home is no longer your castle; and your rights are being undermined every day. The United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights mean nothing to these people.

So what can you do? First; know what laws are currently on the books in your area; know your representatives on all levels and how they feel about you and your pets. Get involved; speak up; write letters - do somthing, before it is too late.

I am not advocating that you become a gun toting, loud mouth at your local council meetings - but you should speak up - be polite - but let them know how you feel.