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Health & Fitness

Kifowit Introduces Legislation to Address Dog Fighting

AURORA, Ill. – State Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego, is urging residents to take proper care of their pets in support of National Responsible Pet Owner Awareness Month which is celebrated in February.

“The commitment of pet ownership must be taken seriously. Even though pets come with cuddles and kisses they also are attached with unseen expenses and responsibilities,” Kifowit said. “Owning a pet is essentially adding another loving member to your family.  If owners are able to give their pets the care they need then they will be happy and healthy companions for years to come.”

There are several ways you can ensure your pet has the best home possible.  It’s important to remember to spay or neuter your pet, schedule annual veterinary checkups, ID and/or microchip your pet, ensure a proper first aid kit is prepared and handy, travel safely with pets strapped in appropriately, ensure no potentially harmful materials are accessible to your pet and choose an appropriate diet in consultation with your vet. 

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To increase awareness, Kifowit introduced legislation to increase penalties for those who abuse their pets through dog fighting.  The bill raises the punishment of dog fighting by one felony classification.

“Dog fighting is cruel and inhumane.  This bill will ensure that those who participate in such acts will receive a punishment that matches their brutality,” Kifowit said. “I hope my fellow legislators join me by supporting this proposal.  By increasing the punishments of this bill I hope people will think twice about participating or attending a dog fighting event.”

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For more information, please contact Rep. Kifowit’s constituent service office at 630-585-1308, email Stephanie.Kifowit@att.net, or visit www.ILDistrict84.com.

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