Letter: Humane Society doesn't represent informed Dakotans’ views

A person would have to be hard hearted to not be affected by photos and stories of animals that are abused in some way. The Humane Society of the United States of America counts on this in their fundraising efforts for the group. They have done the same with their support of Measure 5 on the ballot in North Dakota.

In both instances they grab those emotions to rope the public in with false statements.

Measure 5, if passed, would be a mess. Open to various interpretations, it leaves out specifics and all domestic animals except three. Dogs, cats and horses are the only species mentioned. The vagueness is an important facet of the Measure 5. It’s a useful tool to draw in uniformed or emotional voters to vote for No. 5.

The HSUS does not truly represent the views of informed North Dakotans. Two years ago, HSUS tried to force its way into North Dakota and was defeated.

Believe it or not, there are other actual North Dakota groups who are currently working on legislation that would completely and clearly address all animals and all forms of animal abuse in our state. These groups are comprised of people who actually live and work in North Dakota. The true intent of these groups is to address animal abuse. Dog lovers, kitty people, kids who have a rabbit for a 4-H project need to know. If you rodeo, are a beef producer, just love horses Measure 5 is not in the best interest of their animals.

North Dakotans for Animal Care, North Dakota Animal Stewards, the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, most veterinarians, pet owners, hunters, wildlife groups and ag producers stand strong to defeat Measure 5 and replace it with truthful, comprehensive legislation to protect North Dakota’s domestic animals.

Keep in mind that the HSUS are the people who are truly against pet ownership, have harmed animal agriculture in other states. Thanks to them and their stance against humane horse slaughter, the number of abandoned and neglected horses has dramatically increased. Only about 1 percent of funds raised by them goes to help animals. They spend their money on causes like Measure 5 instead to further their agenda.

Truly informed and compassionate voters will vote no on Measure 5. Will you?

Doug and Judy Johnson and son Cody Cowan, beef producers and pet owners, Sentinel Butte

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