"Clubhouse Puppies" print from Dogstuff
Despite the protests of dog breeders in the state, the Indiana legislature is on the verge of passing its first-ever laws regulating the breeding business.
Puppy mills have proliferated around the state, but since Indiana’s animal cruelty law only requires that they be provided food and water, shutting the mills down has been difficult.
At present, the law would define dog breeders as anyone having more than 20 unaltered female dogs, and brokers as anyone selling more than 500 dogs in a year.
The bill also requires breeders to be registered, follow USDA standards of care, and keep veterinary records. There are also a restriction on the use of wire cages and a requirement to provide a “reasonable” opportunity for exercise at least once a day.
An amended bill has passed the Senate; its final form will be decided in conference committee. The bill’s original author, Rep. Linda Lawson, D-Hammond, has said she still wants to include a cap on the total number of unaltered females a breeder is allowed to have.
Dog breeders have complained that they are being unfairly regulated, but lawmakers say the law is necessary.
“Not all the dog breeders allow these conditions, but some did,” said Sen. Joe Zakas, R-Granger. “So this bill is an attempt to set up a regulatory structure for the whole industry. I think it’s a step in the right direction.”
