Three bills have been introduced in the Michigan legislature that, if passed, would protect shelter animals from unnecessary suffering.

HB 4263 & HB 4803 prohibit euthanasia by gas chamber, requiring all animal shelters to use the faster, more humane method of injection for dogs and cats.

HB 4663 eliminates pound seizure (the release of dogs and cats from shelters to research, testing, or educational facilities) in Michigan animal shelters, except in the case of veterinary teaching oppportunities to spay/neuter, treat a medical condition, or receive a non-fatal blood bank donation from shelter animals going up for adoption.

These three bills are an important part of improving conditions for shelter animals. While the ultimate goal is to reduce euthanasia through education, spay/neuter, and increased community-wide adoption efforts, there will continue to be animals euthanized by shelters for medical and other reasons. Even animals who aren't deemed adoptable shouldn't have to suffer!

Please tell your representative to support these bills.

Photo credit: superfem