In response to the article, “Animal program sets off ‘alarms'” (Sept. 14), I would like to say Maine is incredibly fortunate to have someone of Norma Worley’s caliber running the Animal Welfare Program. Under Worley’s leadership the program has been transformed from a dysfunctional unit which suffered the ire of many animal welfare interests to a well-respected program that responds to and professionally investigates public complaints.

Dogs and cats are considered “companion animals” under our animal welfare laws, and any kennel with 250 dogs and puppies, especially with communicable diseases, is unable to produce well-socialized puppies. Sen. John Nutting hit the nail on the head when he said some people are upset because the state will know where they are. Complaints from the public that buys their animals can soon be tracked via a vendor number.

Recent changes in the animal welfare laws were the result of considerable input from diverse animal interests. While these laws will serve Mainers and their animals well, we have even more power to reduce the profits by not buying pets that are the result of mass production.

If one cannot find the right match for a new pet at an animal shelter, they should ask a veterinarian, friend or breed club for a referral to a responsible breeder – someone who raises healthy, well-socialized puppies and kittens to be companions, rather than sick, fearful animals that suffer from a lack of socialization at a crucial time in their development.

Deb Clark, Sidney