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Consider writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. Educate others in your community about inhumane dog and cat breeding and the need for breeder regulation.
Minnesota Newspaper Contact List
Letters to the Editor can be mailed (post) or emailed. Some newspapers also accept a fax. To choose a newspaper in or near your communty, open and print Contact List below.
For websites and requirements of a specific newspaper: Minnesota Newspapers
(Many local newspapers are owned by a single firm, so make sure you indicate which newspaper you want your letter published.)
Neighboring state that may cover MN issues: Grand Folks Herald (North Dakota)
A few tips
(Thanks to John W. for assembling the contact list above and the tips below.)
- Involve people with your own experience — in your own words. Tell your story. Be brief and to the point.
- Say you support regulation of dog and cat breeders and why (see below).
- Depending on the newspaper, a letter is often limited to 400 words or shorter. (Some request only 150 words.) Some newspapers also have "Opinion" pages which allow for longer copy. All newspapers reserve the right to edit your letter.
- If you can relate your letter to a specific event that has recently occurred (i.e., dogs seized from puppy mill in your city) or article (i.e., announcement of a breeder bill passed in another state), this makes your letter more timely and newsworthy.
- Newspapers generally require contact information to verify your letter so make sure you provide your telephone and address on the letter. (For privacy reasons, they will only post your name and city.)
Key points for your letter
Review this website for information.
- Minnesota is one of the top producers of puppies in the United States — with some of the largest dog breeding kennels (housing 1,000+ dogs/puppies). Minnesota is also known for breeding cats.
- Minnesota has no state laws to regulate dog and cat breeders. This means no state licensing or inspections of these kennels.
- Irresponsible breeders (known as puppy or kitten mills) view animals as "products" to be produced at the lowest possible price. These type of breeders cut corners in their operations which causes harm to animals. Unhealthy animals are often sold to unsuspecting consumers.
- Breeder regulation will help protect animals and consumers, and help distinguish reputable (compliant) breeders from irresponsible (non-compliant) breeders.
- Ask people to act. Refer them to www.animalfolksmn.org to learn more about inhumane dog and cat breeding and the need for breeder regulation. Ask them to contact their state legislators to educate them about the problem. Flyers about the bill and other printable materials can be found at: Downloads
- Encourage people to adopt a rescued dog or cat from their local animal shelter or an animal rescue group. Discourage people from buying a pet from a pet store and over the Internet. If they do buy from a breeder, encourage them to first see the kennel conditions and parents.
- Just do it — your letter does not have to be perfect!
Send us your letter
If you write a letter to your local newspaper, please send us a copy. We'd like to see what letters get printed throughout Minnesota. Send to info@animalfolksmmn.org. Thanks.
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