Spay/Neuter Bill Still Threatens Owners/Breeders of Hunting Dogs Despite recent amendments, SB 250 (Florez) would continue to significantly impact both the quality and quantity of dogs available for hunting, field trialing and related sporting purposes. The measure, which is a follow-up to a failed mandatory spay/neuter bill (AB 1634) from last year's legislative session, would prohibit anyone from owning an unaltered dog without first securing an unaltered license, increase fees and restrictions on dog breeding and require the mandatory spaying/neutering of any dog whose owner is cited for various violations.
While the bill was amended to provide a very limited exemption from one of its requirements for dogs used to pursue mammals, it still negatively affects the vast majority of hunting dogs, including those used for game bird hunting and field trials. In addition, SB 250 still effectively allows a local jurisdiction to require the spaying and neutering of all dogs, including hunting dogs, without specifying any exceptions or exemptions whatsoever.
The bill is currently on the Suspense File in the Senate Appropriations Committee, and may be acted on the week of May 25th. Hunters and concerned dog owners are encouraged to contact members of the Committee and urge their opposition to SB 250. For more information including how to contact Committee Members click here.
Photo by Donn Walgamuth
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Actor Rob Schneider shares a smile with a "Field of Dreams" attendee. |
 "Field of Dreams"
COHA joined valued member organization, the California Deer Association (CDA), in its "Field of Dreams" event on May 8th -9th. COHA and its partners helped bring a smile to the faces of special needs and terminally ill youth and the families of fallen soldiers by sponsoring breakfast for nearly 80 "hungry campers" on Saturday morning before they headed out for a day of fishing and fun in the outdoors. COHA, Wilderness Unlimited (WU), California Houndsmen for Conservation and the Mendocino County Blacktail Association provided funding for the delicious and hearty meal which was held at the WU RV compound near Williams. To read more on CDA's special two day event and the noted celebrities who shared time in the field with these special youth and families click here. |
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The California Outdoor Heritage Alliance (COHA) is a 501(c)4 non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of wildlife conservation and the protection of our hunting heritage. COHA was created in early 2006 by the California Waterfowl Association (CWA) to enhance the political effectiveness of hunters and other wildlife conservationists and enthusiasts in the halls of our State Capitol and beyond. For more information on COHA and its member organizations, please visit www.outdoorheritage.org
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