To the Honorable Legislators of Ohio,

We, the undersigned citizens and advocates for animal welfare, urgently petition for comprehensive reforms to Ohio's animal cruelty laws to better protect companion animals and address widespread issues of cruelty and neglect. Ohio currently ranks poorly in national assessments of animal welfare due to inadequate legislation and enforcement. We urge you to enact the following reforms:

Exceptions to Animal Cruelty: Eliminate any exemptions that currently permit cruel treatment of animals for entertainment, experimentation, or any other purpose.
Felony Offense for Animal Cruelty: Upgrade all forms of animal cruelty to felony offenses punishable by more than one year in prison and fines exceeding $2,500. Harsher penalties are necessary to deter and appropriately punish offenders.
Protection from Heat and Cold in Vehicles: Prohibit leaving pets unattended in vehicles when temperatures fall below 40°F or rise above 70°F, even if windows are cracked. This measure aims to prevent heatstroke and hypothermia, which can be fatal to animals.
Ban on Puppy Mills and Large-Scale Breeders: Implement a complete ban on puppy mills and large-scale puppy breeders. Such operations frequently subject animals to inhumane conditions and health risks, warranting felony charges for violators.
Increased Inspections of Dog Breeders: Intensify inspections of high-volume dog breeders to ensure compliance with humane standards and to prevent overcrowding, neglect, and abuse.
Prohibition of Testing on Dogs and Cats: Prohibit the use of dogs and cats in product testing, aligning with ethical standards that respect animal welfare and encourage alternative testing methods.
Prohibition of Debarking: Make it illegal to debark dogs, a procedure that causes unnecessary pain and suffering, except under strict medical necessity.
Enforcement Against Amish Puppy Mills: Strengthen enforcement of laws pertaining to Amish puppy mills, addressing specific concerns such as overcrowding, unsanitary conditions, and inadequate veterinary care.

In 2021, Ohio was ranked the second worst state for inhumane puppy mills, with reports of breeding dogs suffering and dying due to negligent practices. This unacceptable reality demands immediate legislative action to protect the welfare of animals across our state.

We implore you, as elected representatives, to prioritize these reforms and uphold Ohio's commitment to compassionate treatment of animals. Let us strive together to make Ohio a leader in animal welfare and set a standard for humane treatment that reflects our values as a society.

Sincerely,

Hannah Tyson

Stow, OH, 44224

07-15-2024