Jennifer Forcier

Dear Members of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, My name is Jennifer, and I am a resident of Belmont, New Hampshire, and a small farm owner raising livestock with the help of livestock guardian dogs. I respectfully submit my opposition to HB1133. On our farm, livestock guardian dogs are not pets in the traditional sense — they are essential working animals responsible for protecting livestock from predators and ensuring the safety and welfare of the animals in our care. These dogs live and work outdoors as part of their natural and trained role, often overnight and in all seasons, which reflects centuries-old and widely accepted agricultural practice. Legislation that does not clearly recognize the unique role and needs of working farm dogs risks creating unintended consequences for responsible farmers. Requirements designed for household pets may unintentionally make it difficult or even impossible for small farms to responsibly protect livestock, which could lead to increased animal loss, financial hardship, and reduced agricultural viability in our state. Farmers already have strong incentives to care for their animals well. Healthy, properly managed guardian dogs are essential partners in humane livestock stewardship. We support reasonable animal welfare protections, but HB1133, as written, does not adequately account for legitimate agricultural use and working animal standards. For these reasons, I respectfully urge you to oppose HB1133 or significantly amend it to protect responsible farmers and recognized agricultural practices. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, Jennifer Belmont, New Hampshire