The Minnesota Puppy and Kitten Mill bill (State File 7/House File 253) did not pass this year in the Minnesota legislature.

We all worked hard, together, to educate our legislators and encourage them to understand the problem of inhumane dog and cat breeding; unfortunately, there are certain Minnesota legislators who still do not believe a problem exists and do not understand the purpose of or need for regulation.

While this news is disappointing, we can't stop trying. Now, more than ever, we need to lead with hope and the belief that we will create change.

Mahatma Ghandi said: "The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated." But he also said: "First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win."

We will win. With respect and honesty, we will win the minds of legislators and the hearts of Minnesotans. We will change our communities to show that the inhumane treatment of dogs and cats in breeding facilities is not tolerated in our state.

With your help, the Minnesota Puppy and Kitten Mill bill (SF 7/HF 253) will pass in the 2010 Minnesota legislative session and breeders will be required to act responsibly. This is only the beginning.

Thank you for all of your help
Your calls, petitions, emails, direct contacts with legislators and willingness to talk with others and spread the word were extremely influential. Legislators heard from hundreds of Minnesotans who want these bills passed.

While SF 7/HF 253 didn't pass this year, significant progress was made. Now, we just need to build off these strengths and continue to move forward.

Follow the vote. In early 2009, the Puppy and Kitten Mill bill (SF 7/HF 253) was heard in the following committees:

Senate Agriculture Committee HELD
House Public Safety Policy and Oversight Committee PASSED
House Civil Justice Committee PASSED
House Agriculture Committee HELD