Ill. panel on pet breeding ready to get started

SPRINGFIELD -- An Illinois task force looking into potential abuses by pet stores and breeding operations is ready to get started.

Illinois lawmakers approved the task force less than two weeks ago, but the members have already been appointed. The state Agriculture Department says the panel will meet for the first time on June 22.

The task force includes experts from animal welfare groups such as the Humane Society. It also includes veterinarians, breeders and hunters.

The goal is to find out whether large-scale breeders and pet stores provide humane care for animals. The panel is supposed to recommend state requirements for proper shelter, ventilation, sanitation and more.