Puppy mill laws still showing up on state agendas

National report

-- Commercial dog breeder regulation was a hot topic among lawmakers in 2009, with more than 90 “puppy mill” bills introduced across 33 states last year alone.

Two of the most recent laws to be introduced or passed in regard to commercial dog breeding were in Wisconsin and New Hampshire.

Wisconsin’s bill was signed into law Dec. 1, 2009, and requires anyone who sells 25 or more dogs per year, operates a breeding facility that sells 25 dogs per year, operates an auction that sells 50 or more dogs per year, operates a shelter that houses at least 25 dogs per year or operates an animal-control facility contracted by a city, village, town or county. The state’s Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) will inspect the locations regularly, and the bill establishes a standard of care that must be followed by all licensees.

In New Hampshire, a bill filed Dec. 16 would require certain standards of care by breeders and prohibit the possession of more than 50 intact dogs over the age of 4 months. Debarking, tail docking and surgical birth also would be prohibited unless performed by a licensed veterinarian.