Letter to the Editor: Treatment of animals

By WAYNE PACELLE The Humane Society of the United States Washington
DC

Editor,
In March, U.S. Rep. Chris Cannon (R-3rd) voted against a bill to crack down on the barbaric and inhumane practices of illegal dog fighting and cockfighting, while Reps. Rob Bishop (R-1st) and Jim Matheson (D-2nd) Bishop favored the legislation. The measure was resoundingly approved by the House of Representatives by a vote of 368 – 39, and just passed the Senate unanimously. It now awaits the President’s signature to become law.
Besides the support of The Humane Society of the United States, The National Sheriff’s Association also backed the bill because animal fights spawn narcotics traffic, public corruption, human violence, and illegal gambling.
The poultry industry endorsed the legislation to prevent the spread of avian diseases, including bird flu. We appreciate Reps. Bishop and Matheson for their support, and are disappointed that Rep. Cannon voted against humane organizations, anti-gambling groups, and law enforcement agencies on this issue. We hope he exhibits greater sensitivity to animal welfare when other anti-cruelty matters come before the House.