VVSA At The Statehouse

We are fortunate to live in a state that recognizes the need to protect the welfare of animals. VVSA’s work has resulted in the passage of several bills:

1. ​1. Updates and improvements to the animal welfare statute, includes making some forms of abuse a felony.
   
2. 2. Creation of the VT Spay Neuter Incentive Program (VSNIP). We spearheaded the legislative initiative, that evolved from VVSA's statewide spay/neuter program that we began in 1986.
3. 3. The rabies vaccine injection schedule extended from two to three years. 
   

4. VVSA worked with the VT Fair Association to ensure that animals would not be given as prizes at fairs across the state.
5. Prohibition of Internet Hunting in VT.
6. Inclusion of animals in a Relief from Abuse Court order, which protects animals involved in volatile domestic relationships.
7. Ensure ability to bring animals to shelter facilities following local and national disasters.
8. The inclusion of animals during evacuations following natural disasters.
9. Inclusion of animals in the municipal ticketing system which enables law enforcement to address certain violations of our animal welfare statute (Title 13, Chap. 8) civilly versus criminally. This approach may be the answer to the overcrowded court system that too often ignores the plight of abused animals for lack of time and people power.
10. Student Choice for Dissection, allowing students the opportunity to do an alternative project not involving a dead animal. ​

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