ND group has proposal to deal with animal cruelty

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FARGO, N.D. (AP) — A group is proposing an alternative to a ballot initiative that aims to strengthen North Dakota's penalties for animal cruelty.

North Dakotans for Responsible Animal Care has officials from groups representing farmers and ranchers, veterinarians, animal shelters and a zoo, as well as from the state Agriculture Department and Board of Animal Health. It plans to offer legislation to state lawmakers that it says will be a more comprehensive response to animal mistreatment.

The proposed ballot measure would make cruelty to dogs, cats and horses a potential felony crime. Supporters hope to gather enough signatures to put it on the November general election ballot.

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