I’ve had patients that were “hoarders”; however, there was never a sense of urgency before now, as they hoarded non-living things.  Lately, I am finding more and more animal hoarders than I previously knew existed!! I’ve also come to find out we apparently have more puppy mills than all but one other State. I’m heavily involved with our local animal shelter and staff; nevertheless, their hands are tied in helping those that need it most…that is…without an Animal Hoarding Law.

Many have tried to get these laws passed; however, the law makers don’t seem to recognize a benefit, so thus far continue to overlook this desperate plea. In contrast, nothing could be further from the truth! An Animal Hoarding Law is beneficial for all!

Firstly, it would save countless animals from dying an often slow and agonizing death; furthermore, it may help the hoarder with mandatory psychological services, and ultimately public safety via preventing the spread of possible epidemics , sanitation issues, blocked exits or heating vents which pose fire hazards, and unsafe levels of toxicity making neighborhood homes biohazard areas endangering many that are not even aware there is an animal hoarder living next door!

There truly are strength in numbers…often those in powerful positions will not budge when only a handful of individuals are seeking positive change; however, when the masses demand it…wonderful things may transpire! Please, I implore you to sign this petition.

Here are a few brief and random articles on the subject (for those that are unfamiliar with animal hoarding or the severity of the problem):

http://www.humanesociety.org/assets/pdfs/publications/2010/julyaug2010/aa_julyaug2010_hoarding_pdf.pdf​

http://www.humanesociety.org/issues/abuse_neglect/facts/hoarding.html​

http://aldf.org/resources/when-you-witness-animal-cruelty/animal-hoarding-facts/​

http://animallawcoalition.com/pennsylvanias-problems-in-enforcing-animal-cruelty-laws/​

http://www.humanesociety.org/news/news/2009/07/hawaii_hoarding_072109.html​

https://www.animallaw.info/article/detailed-discussion-animal-hoarding

Peace to all,
Dr. Janice, PhD