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Posted: Saturday, February 12th, 2005 5:46 AM HST

Bill would ban killing dogs for human consumption

By Associated Press

HONOLULU (AP) _ The House Judiciary Committee has approved a bill that would make it a felony to kill, distribute or purchase any dog or cat for human consumption. The original House bill dealt only with stray or stolen dogs and cats, but the committee added language that included all canines and felines. The bill was introduced by Representative Glenn Wakai, who said media reports last August about dogs being stolen and slaughtered for meat suggested the beginnings of a ``cottage industry'' that should be stopped. Animal Rights Hawaii director Cathy Goeggel says federal officials believe the use of dog meat is a thriving business in Hawaii. She says there is a public health concern because there is no oversight over the slaughter, packaging or sanitation of cat and dog carcasses. (Copyright 2005 Associated Press. All rights reserved.)