As the rumor of bringing HF 737 to the floor for debate this week, I respectfully request a NO vote on this dangerous bill which would affect every single non-agricultural animal owner. Your pet-owning constituents, as well.
I do understand some senators are very adamant about getting this bill passed having had email conversations with them. That’s OK. Everyone has a right to their opinion.
It has been said that the interpretation of the application of the extremely broad-brushed definitions of injury and serious injury, without any provisions for a whoops, is patently false. Examples of ‘crimes’ include an accidental scratch to muzzle or eye in the act of being a dog, a cat getting hit by a vehicle recovering with a permanent limb, a working dog getting kicked or stepped on, a show dog doing agility spraining an ankle, and the list goes on. However, there has never been an explanation offered based strictly upon the language of the bill. I welcome that discussion.
I have heard the claims of so much abuse and torture to animals that there is a crying need for this bill. However, again, there has never been any statics provided validating this claim. Only some stories, some with a bit of embellishment for a stronger emotional appeal. Yes, I have those statistics that no one else bothered to get. Yes, I have examples of story embellishments. The Samoyed dog seizure at Manly, IA in Dec. 2019 for one.
And finally, in respect for your time, I want to direct your attention to the two attachments. One is a screenshot off the personal page of the HSUS-Iowa director. Please read carefully about providing rewards if one sends emails to senators asking for a yes vote on HF 737, by sending a copy to Mr. Moore as proof, they would then be eligible to receive a discount reward for doing so. Unfortunately, I was unable to capture a screenshot of the four businesses participating before everything was wiped from the internet.
It would be interesting to know how many of your ‘yes’ request participated in this ‘incentive’ program.
I welcome a conversation on my points presented.
- Betsy Fickel
Garner
