CA AB 339 - animal sales in public places

California State Assembly

Public Safety Committee

1020 N. Street (LOB) Room 111

Sacramento, CA 95814

916-319-3745 fax

Re: CA AB 339: Malicious mischief: live animals (Dickinson): OPPOSE

REQUEST TO BE LISTED IN OFFICIAL OPPOSITION IN BILL ANALYSIS

Dear Chairman Ammiano and committee members,

The California Federation of Dog Clubs, founded in 1990, represents thousands of dog owners across our state. We are advocates for animal welfare and for protecting the rights of responsible dog owners. The CFoDC conducts breed identification workshops for shelter workers, distributes a dog care and training brochure for new owners who adopt from shelters, and provides a toll-free help line for pet owners who are struggling with behavior or training problems. We also maintain and administer a relief fund for animals affected by disasters such as earthquakes or fires. CFoDC supports animal legislation that is beneficial to society and to animal welfare.

The CFoDC is OPPOSED to CA AB 339.

Although a similar measure passed the state legislature last year, the sales of animals in public venues is not an inherently cruel or immoral activity. The fact that certain "exemptions" can be proposed tells us that the act of selling animals in public is not a reprehensible act worthy of legal prohibition. In fact, animals have been sold in public venues since time immemorial. It is important to note that, despite the picture painted by bill proponents, dogs and cats are not often sold in swap meets or flea markets. Many other animals such as pet birds, reptiles, chickens, and livestock are commonly sold in public venues without any detriment to public safety.

Please reject AB 339.

Sincerely yours,

Geneva Coats, R.N.

Secretary, California Federation of Dog Clubs

cc:Tom Ammiano, Melissa A Melendez, Reginald B. Jones-Sawyer, Sr., Holly J. Mitchell, Bill Quirk, Nancy Skinner, Marie Waldron