Over the years, Winona County had granted permits to 12 large-scale breeding facilities. (Ten are currently in full operation.)
Rather than continuing to promote the mass production of puppies and being known for this type of business, the majority of the board voted (3-2) to stop issuing more and more permits for these kennels and instead priority the health and well-being of the adult dogs and puppies produced. Multiple meetings, including multiple public hearings, were held on this issue over the past years. For further meeting details, scroll to meeting section below. |
Animal Folks, with Winona County residents, collected and submitted over 900 petitions to the Winona County board in support of a ban on commercial breeding kennels and the mass production of puppies. Winona County residents spoke up loudly and clearly!
The petition to the right stated: "I oppose puppy mills in Winona County. I believe the mass production of puppies in these breeding facilities causes harm to the dogs and puppies. I support action by the county board, including a ban on future permits for any new kennels and new rules that set higher standards for existing kennels. This is a priority to me and I ask that the county board and staff make it a priority too." Want to still sign the petition? Please do. We will continue to watch actions in the county as the ban is implemented. We welcome your support. By signing, you are giving Animal Folks permission to email you with updates and action alerts. |
Sign petition* INDICATES REQUIRED FIELD
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ACTION ALERT:
Three board commissioners (below) voted in support of animal welfare and moved to ban future permits for commercial dog breeding kennels. This vote was possible due to their willingness to listen to data and resident concerns — and to keep moving the issue forward. Please send these commissioners an email or letter and thank them for their efforts and continued support for the welfare of dogs and the values of Winona County. Winona County is located in southern Minnesota. The county represents multiple cities and townships. Winona County is divided into five districts with one commissioner representing each District. (Names and map at right.) Don't know your district or commissioner? See link in right column. |
County commissioners:
District 1 - Chris M. Meyer District 2 - Dwayne A. Voegeli District 3 - Josh D. Elsing District 4 - Greg Olson District 5 - Marcia Ward Emails and phone numbers for each commissioner can be found on the Winona County Board website. To find your district and your commissioner, you can: 1. Go to the MN Polling Place Finder and enter your address. Your "County Commissioner" district number will be displayed, along with other election information. 2. Or call the county at 507-457-6349 and ask for their assistance. Simply give them your address. County Board email and phone below:
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This issue and campaign depended on advocacy by those who live in Winona County ... and those who live out of the county but wanted to help.
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