Dear Supporters of the Howard's Flea Market Petition, 

We wanted to provide an update on the status of our flea market petition and the progress we've made so far.  First and foremost, we would like to express our utmost gratitude for your unwavering support.  Your signatures, comments, and backing of this cause have been instrumental in driving our efforts forward.  

RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS:

1. INCREASED PUBLIC AWARENESS: Not only has our petition gained traction on social media, but in addition, our first protest was ALSO featured in an article written by the Citrus County Chronicle Newspaper and published on Facebook with strong approval. 

2. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT: We continue to make a physical presence at Howard's Flea Market and provide educational materials to the public.  The information includes Citrus County Animal Control's phone number, an educational sheet on the difference between backyard breeders and responsible/reputable breeders, a fact sheet from the Humane Society of the United States regarding flea markets and puppy mills, as well as a copy of Florida State Law Chapter 828.29 (detailing health requirements and consumer guarantee for animals sold in Florida).  For potential adopters we provide information on various animal shelters.  We have also answered an alarmingly common question from the public: YES, you may call animal control ANONYMOUSLY to report inhumane treatment of animals. 

3. POTENTIAL TO MEET WITH LOCAL OFFICIALS: The Board of Citrus County Commissioners meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month, and we continue to collect information to present to its members.  We have secured the "grid sheet" from the public records department within the sheriff’s office for the years 2020-2023 in preparation for our presentation.  A citizen of Citrus County has volunteered to begin attending the meetings to represent our cause - thank you!  

NEXT STEPS:

In the coming weeks, we will continue to be a physical presence at Howard's Flea Market to do the important work of educating the public and answering any questions there as well as contacting local officials as required. 

Your continued support is invaluable to our cause. Please spread the word and encourage others to sign our petition.  When you SIGN and SHARE this petition, YOU ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE.   Also, we encourage you to join our Facebook group "People for Pawsitive Change” to stay up to date on this cause and make suggestions as we move forward.  It is where you can find information about joining us at Howard’s Flea Market as well.  Together, we make a difference and create a more humane environment for all animals.  

THANK YOU once again for standing with us in this endeavor.  

Grateful,

People for Pawsitive Change