June 23, 2008

Opposition to revised bill AB1634

The Associated Obedience Clubs of Northern California was established in 1951 and is an organization of purebred and mixed breed dog owners representing 18 dog training clubs from Truckee to Fresno and over to the coast.

We realize that the problem of our animal shelters is a complex one. It needs further study to resolve the many issues we face with our pets. AOCNC urges that AB 1634, as amended, not be passed out of the Senate Local Government Committee on Wednesday, June 25th. There are solutions but this revised bill is not the answer. It raises more questions.

AOCNC remains concerned that under this new bill localities are still permitted to enact mandatory spay/neuter laws, as well as the potential for abuse of enforcement. We oppose the concept of breeding permits, breeding bans, or mandatory spay/neuter of purebred dogs. We support reasonable and enforceable laws that protect the health and welfare of purebred dogs and do not restrict the rights of breeders and owners who take their responsibility seriously.

Thank you,
Barbara Tonelli
President, AOCNC