On January 1, 2016, your office will begin enforcing legislation that will make it significantly more difficult, if not impossible, for out-of-state rescues to unite adoptable animals with loving homes in Maine.  The legislation, entitled RULES GOVERNING THE SALE OF DOGS AND CATS AND IMPORTATION OF DOGS AND CATS FOR RESALE OR ADOPTION, is intended to prevent unhealthy animals from unregulated or unscrupulous rescues from entering Maine, but several aspects of the rule negatively impact a number of wonderful, caring rescues that make it their mission to bring animals in need to families in Maine.

I am someone that has had the great fortune to adopt from a highly-reputable rescue that provides this service:  PAWS of Dale Hollow in Tennessee.  Last December, Yogi, a 9-week-old Great Pyrenees/chow mix, got off of an Alpha Dog Transport in Kittery, Maine and curled up in my husband's arms...and a love story began.  Yogi came to Maine came fully vetted, healthy, and happy after their pregnant mother was abandoned in Tenneessee and subsequently rescued by PAWS.  PAWS staff invested a significant amount of money in caring for Yogi and his littermates...and in getting the veterinary certifications necessary for him to enter Maine.

Nearly forty animals from rescues in the south, including Yogi's brother, met their new families that same day...greeted by laughter, tears of happiness, and lots of excitement.  I am saddened to think that other people will not get to experience this joy, that other animals will not have the opportunity to live long, happy lives here in Maine as a result of this rule.

This petition requests that the Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry work with interested parties to find an equitable solution to this problem, one that balances the risks of unhealthy animals entering into the state with the rewards of placing vetted, healthy cats and dogs -- with appropriate documentation -- in foster or adoptive homes.  The requirement that animals coming into the state be held for a minimum of 48 hours (5 days for puppies) is particularly problematic, as this quarantine period may actually increase the health risks for animals (e.g., increase the chances of contracting parvo for puppies).  Further, it requests that the requirements of rescues that rely on foster homes be re-evaluated to ensure that shelters can continue to provide necessary temporary homes for animals in need.

As an animal lover, I share your concern about the welfare of adoptable animals.  I recognize that the rule is intended to ensure appropriate care for rescued animals and to address the problems created by disreputable organizations that don't follow the rules and good veterinary practices.  Unfortunately, the unintended consequence is that many animals in need will suffer -- while rescues that don't follow the rules remain non-compliant, reputable organizations and the animals in their care will be punished.  Please don't let this happen.