Mandatory Spay and Neuter

A proposed bill in TX that would require owners to spay/neuter their dog(s) or face fines, advocates at the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) are responsible for over two dozen similar bills in other states as well. While this seems like a good idea, the real issues aren't so simple. HUSU is also proposing legislation in areas to outlaw cropping of ears and docking of tails. While I personally have never cropped any of our dog's ears and always neuter, where will HSUS's involvement end?

Both HSUS and People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) have names that imply these groups are very concerned with animal welfare. In practice, very little of their money goes to help animals at any local level, and everyone should understand that there is a difference between animal rights and animal welfare. Animal "rights" wishes to apply fragile human understanding to nature, something that generally doesn't work out too well. Animal welfare, conversely, challenges us to co-exist respectfully with all animals in this world we share.

I strongly encourage everyone to do their own research before supporting legislation, or before donating money to groups with emotive names. When it comes to helping animals in your own community, IMO there's nothing better than donating time and/or dollars to your local shelters and rescues. Groups with a door you can knock on, a place to see with your own eyes what's being done to help local animals.