Dear Lori Ann :

Thank you for contacting me about the "Pet Safety and Protection Act of 2007" (S. 714). I am proud to be a cosponsor and strong supporter of this legislation.

Dealers classified as "Class B dealers" collect dogs and cats from a variety of sources for sale to research institutions or veterinary education. Unfortunately, these dealers routinely violate the Animal Welfare Act, which set the minimum standard of care for animals and requires accurate record-keeping on their acquisitions and disposition. They will often obtain these animals by any means necessary, including theft and fraud to sell them for large sums of money. Unfortunately, these animals are frequently subjected to abusive handling and are denied sufficient food, water and veterinary care before they are sold.

I am a cosponsor of the "Pet Safety and Protection Act of 2007," introduced by Senator Akaka (D-HI), which seeks to protect family pets while allowing research on dogs and cats to continue in an environment free from fraud and abuse. This legislation would prohibit Class B dealers and unlicensed individuals from selling dogs and cats to laboratories while also preventing stray animals from being sold to these research facilities.

Thank you again for contacting me about this important issue.