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Minnesota: Dog and Cat Data Transparency Bill
In Minnesota, our goal is to change the law to require inspection records of commercial breeding facilities to be publicly available. Currently, consumers looking to buy a puppy have no way of knowing if a breeder is reputable because the Board of Animal Health keeps commercial breeding inspection records private. This proposed legislation will enable consumers to determine if they are buying from a breeder following the laws or supporting a business with numerous violations for treating dogs inhumanely.
The bill would make data on state-licensed breeders publicly available, identify breeders with revoked licenses, and provide consumers with information on the number of animals breeders have and the nature and frequency of any violations they’ve had.
Minnesota: Companion Animal Board Bill
The Companion Animal Board bill establishes a state board in Minnesota that prioritizes pet issues, and removes dogs and other companion animals from the jurisdiction of the Agriculture Committee and from oversight by the Board of Animal Health.
The Companion Animal Board would assume regulatory duties for pet laws, such as enforcement of the dog and cat breeder law, lead discussions on issues such as spay/neuter services, and work to provide sustainable funding sources to support the pet sector.
Iowa: Inspection Loophole
Iowa law requires higher standards for dog breeders than the USDA. While not strict, requirements include tighter temperature requirements to ensure dogs don’t freeze or die from overheating, and a solid resting surface for dogs kept in wire-floor cages.
There’s currently a loophole in the law where, if a breeder has a USDA license, they are not required to receive an inspection from the state, or meet the stronger standards required by Iowa law. Our goal is to enact change that requires breeders in Iowa to meet the state’s legal standards for commercial breeding facilities.
Shelby, one of the sick dogs RAGOM rescued from Gingerich.
National: Goldie’s Act
When RAGOM rescued 13 dogs from commercial breeder Daniel Gingerich, they were among the sickest dogs we’ve ever taken in. The dogs were fearful, emotionally shut down, and in poor health. We spent nearly $50,000 to rehabilitate them, but despite our efforts, one died from serious health issues.
Recognizing the need for change, Goldie’s Act was introduced. It would amend the Animal Welfare Act to require the USDA to conduct yearly inspections of licensees at a minimum, with access to all facilities at all reasonable times, and require detailed descriptions of any observed violations.