The new year brings two good reasons to take action for puppies. First, the chill of January winds reminds us that thousands of dogs and puppies are enduring the long, cold winter nights outside, isolated in small cages, unable to even cuddle together for warmth and comfort. They are waiting for us to send help -- it is just unconscionable that there are no inspectors at hundreds of large breeding operations, and it's no surprise that the conditions are particularly inhumane at these unlicensed facilities.

Second, each new year, we engage in a process of reflection and renew our commitment to our goals. Let's keep our promise to the dogs who wait for us and make a resolution to pass the Pet Animal Welfare Statute, or PAWS, which will bring protection and comfort to animals stuck in puppy mills.

Where do your legislators stand? Find out if your legislators have co-sponsored PAWS yet.

PAWS will allow the U.S. Department of Agriculture to inspect puppy mills that are currently beyond the reach of the law. These mass commercial breeders are taking advantage of a loophole in the Animal Welfare Act that allows them to sell puppies directly to the public and avoid all federal oversight. This means that no matter how horrific the conditions may be at the puppy mill, the USDA is not permitted to even look at the animals.

PAWS would change all this. Carefully written to avoid covering smaller "hobby breeders," PAWS would make sure that large breeding operations (those that sell seven or more litters in a year) are subject to the minimum requirements of the AWA.

1. Take action. It is critically important that we thank those legislators who are taking a stand against puppy mills -- and get the others to do the same. If your U.S. Representative or two Senators have already co-sponsored PAWS (click here to find out), please call them at 202-224-3121 and thank them. If they have not, please send an email to your Representative and Senators and urge them to co-sponsor and strongly support this important humane legislation. Email your U.S. Representative and Senators now.

2. Make a call. The puppy mill lobby is working hard to scare and confuse folks into opposing PAWS. Your voice is needed NOW to help dogs in puppy mills. In addition to your email, please take a moment to make a short phone call urging your legislators to co-sponsor and strongly support the PAWS legislation. (Not sure what to say? Click here.)

3. Spread the word. Every single U.S. Senator and Representative needs to hear from constituents who care about animals. Ask your friends and family to call their Senators and Representatives as well. Tell five friends to take action now.