Urge Indiana Governor Holcomb To Veto Bill That Would Fuel Puppy Mill Cruelty

In response to the Indiana General Assembly’s passage of H.B. 1412, the ASPCA is urging Governor Eric Holcomb to veto this harmful bill that will strip Indiana’s cities of their authority to prevent the sale of puppies in retail pet stores, allowing puppy mill cruelty to flourish.

Most puppies sold in pet stores come from inhumane commercial dog breeding facilities known as puppy mills, where profit is prioritized over the welfare of the dogs. These dogs spend their lives confined to overcrowded and unsanitary enclosures without adequate veterinary care, food, water or socialization.

In addition to the inhumane treatment that these dogs receive, dogs bred in such poor conditions produce puppies who often suffer from health and behavioral problems. Families are left unprepared for the financial and emotional consequences of caring for a sick dog.

“H.B. 1412 is supported by the very industry that profits off of the inhumane treatment of dogs and will do nothing more than give Hoosiers a false sense of protecting dogs from the heartbreaking reality of commercial breeding facilities,” said Sana Azem, ASPCA senior legislative director for the Midwest division. “Humane organizations are unified in our opposition of this bill and we urge Governor Holcomb to veto H.B. 1412 to preserve critical local protections for animals and our communities.”

Cruel commercial breeders want to maximize profit by producing the highest number of puppies at the lowest possible cost. The more breeding of dogs equals more puppies, which equals more money, so cruel breeders maximize space by keeping dogs tightly contained. Dogs are commonly kept in small, stacked, wire-floored crates or in outdoor pens exposed to heat, cold and rain. They eat, sleep, and give birth in confinement.

Dogs, like people, need regular health care. However, because it can be costly and time-consuming, veterinary care is limited. Breeding dogs and puppies don’t get to see a veterinarian often—not for regular checkups, vaccines, teeth cleanings or even when they’re sick.

Please urge Governor Eric Holcomb to veto H.B. 1412. Contact his office at (317) 232-4567 or send a message to him HERE!

You can help protect dogs in puppy mills by supporting Goldie’s Act. This bill expands enforcement provisions under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). Specifically, the bill directs the Department of Agriculture (USDA) to document and record detailed descriptions of violations of the act observed during inspections and investigations.

You can also help by adopting your new family member from a shelter or reputable dog rescue.

Support Goldie’s Act HERE!