How to write your legislators:

FIRST of all... know who your legislators are. http://www.naiatrust.org/gov/index.htm can help you figure this out. You can also get good information from the various email lists. I know we don't have time to read more email - but think about getting at least one for your home state or for dogs only. This one is much less busy than Pet-law but often has the same crossposts that it does. Send an email to doglegislation-subscribe@yahoogroups.com to set up a subscription. If you don't like it you can always unsubscribe.

 

Communicating with Legislators By Mail or Fax; (Letter Writting Rules):

1) DO NO HARM - be Polite!

2) Use the proper form of address on the envelope and inside address. For senators and representatives: The Honorable [Full Name]

3) Start your letter: Dear Senator [last name] or Dear Representative [last name]

4) Make your letter legible. Handwritten letters are great, but if your handwriting isn't very easy to read, type the letter! It must contain your name, return address and telephone number – readable!

5) Always be polite. Never, never preach, threaten, or scold!

6) In the first sentence, state your position. "I oppose [bill number]" or "I am against..." Then introduce yourself: "I am a hobby breeder of Flat Island Zorchers in Bug Run." Or " I'm a Retriever owner and lover of 20 years." Etc.

7) Be clear and concise. State exactly why the legislation concerns you.

8) Focus on one or two issues at a time – don't try to cover everything in one letter.

9) Use personal examples. Say how the legislation would affect you.

10) Say exactly what you want – not ,"Please consider this carefully," but "Please vote AGAINST this."

11) Keep it short – no more than one page long.

12) End by saying "Thank You" and " I look forward to your response."

 

If you're a breeder, or even just a pet owner, animal legislation WILL effect you. If you're a breeder, new laws could take away your right to breed or strictly limit how you do so. If you're a pet owner, new laws will effect not only how you must care for you current pets, but also where you'll be able to acquire your next. You may not have the option of buying from a breeder next time. Where will you go? Where will you find your next pet?