Why would the PVMA oppose a law that would ban gas chambers in Pennsylvania? Gas Chambers: multiple dogs and cats at one time, panic-stricken and terrified, in some cases up to 45 minutes to die.
Cosponsored by State Senator Andy Dinniman, SB 926 had bipartisan support and the support of both the animal welfare and agricultural communities, and was expected to clear the Senate Agricultural Committee without difficulty. But that was not the case. The Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association decided to oppose SB 926 (which would ultimately prevent the inhumane death of thousands of shelter animals) and the Senate bill has now been shelved indefinitely. Surprised? Don’t be.
You may remember the PVMA also fought us on crucial sections of our new dog laws (solid flooring and unfettered access to outdoor exercise runs) and many wondered if they were representing the wishes of their 2200 members (which they refuse to poll) or Pennsylvania’s commercial breeders. At the time, the PVMA shared a lobbying firm with kennel operators housing as many as 500-900 dogs in their facilities.
Now we adore our vets and wouldn’t be able to do what we do without them. But they need to know the leadership of the PVMA is opposing this important piece of legislation. We know for a fact that many veterinarians and members of the PVMA are against the archaic use of gas chambers to euthanize dogs and cats. In fact, the veterinarians on the PVMA’s own board refuse to use gas chambers in their own practices.
MLAR is urging all our volunteers and members to contact their vets and ask them where they stand on the barbaric use of gas chambers. Then ask your vet(s) to contact PVMA Executive Director Charlene Wandzilak (717-220-1437) and urge the PVMA to support the ban on gas chambers in Pennsylvania. Then contact the leadership of the PVMA and ask the individuals listed below why they are opposing SB 969. Be polite but resolute.
