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We the people ask the federal government to Take or explain a position on an issue or policy:

Stop Animal Homelessness at Its Roots

Created by A.S. on September 22, 2011

Every year in the United States, an estimated 6 to 8 million lost, abandoned, or unwanted dogs and cats enter animal shelters and nearly half of these animals—many of them healthy, young, and adoptable—must be euthanized because there are too many animals and not enough good homes.

This tragedy occurs because people don't spay and neuter their animals and because greedy breeders continue to churn out more puppies. Because all dogs and cats are precious and because no more animals need to be bred when so many others go without hope of being adopted, PETA is calling for a mandatory spay-and-neuter law until all dogs and cats in the United States have a home to call their own.

Sign the petition calling for a mandatory spay-and-neuter law to help end the animal overpopulation crisis.

Energy & Environment

Response to Petition

Ending Pet Homelessness through Responsible Pet Ownership

By Rebecca Blue

The Obama Administration shares the public's concerns about the plight of homeless animals, and believes that responsible pet ownership -- including spaying and neutering -- is necessary to reducing the number of unwanted pets. But the federal government's role in this area is limited, and these issues are primarily within the jurisdiction of states and local governments.

The federal law governing the breeding of dogs and cats is the Animal Welfare Act (AWA), which is enforced by the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). The AWA covers commercial breeders of dogs, cats, and other animals, but does not apply to privately owned pets or stray animals. It also does not include provisions concerning spay/neuter practices. Instead, pets and stray animals typically fall under the jurisdiction of state and local governments. We encourage concerned citizens to work with humane organizations and state and local animal control offices to help them in their efforts to promote adoption of animals, and to educate pet owners about the importance of spaying and neutering their dogs and cats.

The Obama Administration is committed to protecting animal welfare, and it is actively working to do so in areas where there is a role for the federal government. For example, as we explain in another petition response, APHIS is increasing its enforcement of the AWA and is currently working on a proposed rule that would require internet breeders provide their animals with care and treatment that meets the AWA standards.

Rebecca Blue is USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs

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