(Montpelier, VT - AP) — The Legislature is considering two bills designed to protect dogs.
One proposal bans the cropping of dogs' ears. The other bill would set up enforcement and licensing policies for dog sellers in an effort to close down "puppy mills" that often breed and sell sick animals.
Both bills are controversial.
The puppy mill proposal requires anyone who sells a dog or cat to get a $150 license and pay a five dollar tax per animal sold.
Under the ear cropping ban, Vermont would become the first state to prohibit veterinarians from performing the cosmetic procedure.
The Vermont Veterinary Medical Association plans to survey its members about the bills next week.
(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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