Chloe's bill has many flaws

Cari Heller asks everyone to support Chloe's bill in the mistaken belief that it will end puppy mills. Ms. Heller refers to the "cruel breeding industry" which seems to brand anyone who breeds dogs as a puppy mill. Nothing could be further from the truth.

Having fostered many rescued puppy mill dogs, I agree that puppy mills are an awful thing.

We have a wonderful purebred dog that we acquired from a reputable and responsible hobby breeder. We wanted specific characteristics in a dog and after a lot of research, we selected a breed. Our dog came with a contract that we had to have him neutered. The contract also stipulated that the breeder would take him back at any time for any reason. No reputable hobby breeder ever wants one of their dogs in a shelter. We got exactly what we wanted and our dog is cherished family member.

What Ms. Heller fails to realize is that Chloe's bill would require my family, who fosters one dog at a time, to conform to USDA regulations. We would have to have a separate facility with floors and walls that could be sanitized. The bill can also deprive pet owners of due process as animal care and control personnel can enter your home and seize animals without a warrant.

Imagine a neighbor with a grudge sending people in to search your home. In some cases, your pets could be adopted out or even euthanized before your case comes before a judge. If you are found innocent, there is no way to get your beloved pets back.

If you really want to stop puppy mills, don't legislate. Stop buying dogs from pet stores. Puppy mills exist to supply them with puppies.

If you want a specific breed of dog, check with the breed rescue or find a responsible hobby breeder.

Don't criminalize and over-regulate the very people who are doing a good job producing healthy happy purebred dogs.

Chloe's bill is a well-intentioned but very flawed piece of legislation.

Patti Siwicki

Elk Grove Village