Change the animal welfare laws in Maryland
The Issue
It is heartbreaking to witness the ongoing neglect and suffering of animals in our community. As a veterinary professional of over 20 years time and again, I have encountered situations where animals are left in deplorable conditions, often without the basic necessities for a healthy life. Despite reaching out to our local Animal Control officers for help, I'm repeatedly told their hands are tied due to existing local laws.
Maryland is home to beautiful wildlife, pets, and farm animals — each deserving of care and compassion. We must enforce stricter laws to protect these innocent creatures. Our current animal welfare regulations are outdated and insufficient, leaving too many animals vulnerable to neglect and cruelty.
Studies show that jurisdictions with robust animal protection laws report fewer cases of animal abuse and neglect (Source: Animal Legal Defense Fund). Stronger laws can empower local authorities to take swift and decisive action in potential abuse cases. Other states, such as Colorado and Oregon, have enacted strict anti-cruelty laws leading to significant reductions in animal abuse and elevated community awareness.
We urge the Maryland state legislature to review and update the current animal welfare laws. Proposed improvements could include:
1. Implementing more rigorous penalties for neglect and abuse.
2. Establishing clearer guidelines and resources to equip Animal Control officers with the power to act effectively.
3. Launching community awareness campaigns to educate the public on proper animal care and the consequences of neglect.
4. Basic necessities and care should be implemented and enforced! Domestic pets should not be kept in cages or on tie outs for extended periods! Dogs should have fresh, clean water accessible 24/7 and owners should be required to exercise pets for a minimum of 30 mins a day.
5. Animals must have a clean, dry, climate controlled, and safe shelter if being housed outdoors.
Every animal deserves a loving and safe environment. By advocating for changes in our state's animal welfare laws, we can create a system that truly protects those who cannot speak for themselves.
Please join me in calling for change. Sign this petition and help transform the welfare of animals in Montana for a brighter future.
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The Issue
It is heartbreaking to witness the ongoing neglect and suffering of animals in our community. As a veterinary professional of over 20 years time and again, I have encountered situations where animals are left in deplorable conditions, often without the basic necessities for a healthy life. Despite reaching out to our local Animal Control officers for help, I'm repeatedly told their hands are tied due to existing local laws.
Maryland is home to beautiful wildlife, pets, and farm animals — each deserving of care and compassion. We must enforce stricter laws to protect these innocent creatures. Our current animal welfare regulations are outdated and insufficient, leaving too many animals vulnerable to neglect and cruelty.
Studies show that jurisdictions with robust animal protection laws report fewer cases of animal abuse and neglect (Source: Animal Legal Defense Fund). Stronger laws can empower local authorities to take swift and decisive action in potential abuse cases. Other states, such as Colorado and Oregon, have enacted strict anti-cruelty laws leading to significant reductions in animal abuse and elevated community awareness.
We urge the Maryland state legislature to review and update the current animal welfare laws. Proposed improvements could include:
1. Implementing more rigorous penalties for neglect and abuse.
2. Establishing clearer guidelines and resources to equip Animal Control officers with the power to act effectively.
3. Launching community awareness campaigns to educate the public on proper animal care and the consequences of neglect.
4. Basic necessities and care should be implemented and enforced! Domestic pets should not be kept in cages or on tie outs for extended periods! Dogs should have fresh, clean water accessible 24/7 and owners should be required to exercise pets for a minimum of 30 mins a day.
5. Animals must have a clean, dry, climate controlled, and safe shelter if being housed outdoors.
Every animal deserves a loving and safe environment. By advocating for changes in our state's animal welfare laws, we can create a system that truly protects those who cannot speak for themselves.
Please join me in calling for change. Sign this petition and help transform the welfare of animals in Montana for a brighter future.
The Decision Makers
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Petition created on October 14, 2026