Wyden, Merkley push “Puppy Protection Act” to crack down on cruel breeding practices

OREGON (KTVZ) -- U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have introduced legislation aimed at strengthening protections for dogs under the care of breeders. The proposed bill, known as the Puppy Protection Act, seeks to end cruel mass breed practices by establishing improved care standards for these animals.

The legislation works to ensure dogs in breeder facilities live in safe environments, have access to outdoor spaces and can regularly interact with other dogs and humans. This initiative addresses current conditions where many dogs are kept in inadequate spaces without sufficient food or water.

U.S. Sen. Wyden emphasized the importance of better living conditions for young animals. "As the saying goes, "dogs are man's best friend." Yet, too many are living in small spaces without enough food or water before they find their forever home," Wyden said. "Puppies deserve to be born into a world where they can romp around on grass, play with their furry friends and curl up in a comfortable, safe environment. This bill raises the standards of care for dogs so they can live a happy and healthy life from the get-go."

The Puppy Protection Act outlines specific solutions for veterinary care, housing and breeding practices. These include expanded enclosure requirements, allowing dogs to stand on their hind legs without touching the top of their enclosure and increasing the number of square feet based on the dog's size. The bill also prohibits stacking enclosures.

The legislation mandates daily outdoor exercise for dogs over the age of 12 weeks, requiring unrestricted access from their primary enclosures to a ground-level, enclosed outdoor area. Additionally, it sets a 30-minute daily requirement for dogs to socialize with humans and compatible dogs, separate from time spent in veterinary care.

U.S. Sen. Merkley highlighted the need for breeder accountability. "Our canine companions deserve to be treated with basic dignity and care at all stages of their lives. We must hold irresponsible breeders accountable and make sure puppies are raised with the care, safety and humane treatment they deserve," Merkley said.

To regulate breeding practices, the bill requires a veterinary screening prior to each breeding attempt. It also limits breeding to no more than two litters in any 18-month period or six litters in a dog's lifetime. Breeders would also be responsible for finding humane placements for retired breeding dogs, such as with adoptive families or rescue organizations.

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) leads the bill, which is co-sponsored by several other U.S. Senators. These co-sponsors include Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Coons (D-DE), Mark Warner (D-VA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV).