US Congress
HR 1642, entitled the “Puppy Protect Act,” has been introduced into the United States House of Representatives.
Proposed provisions include: A that such dealer provide adequate housing for dogs that includes—
(i) completely solid flooring;
(ii) indoor space sufficient to allow the tallest dog in an enclosure to stand on his or her hind legs without touching the roof of the enclosure;
(iii) With respect to dogs over 8 weeks at 12 years of age, primary enclosures that, with the length of the dog measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, provide at least— Legislative Update The RUFF Report Legislative Update (I) 12 square feet of indoor floor space per each dog up to 25 inches long; (II) 20 square feet of indoor floor space per each dog between 25 and 35 inches long; and (III) 30 square feet of indoor floor space per each dog 35 inches and longer;
(iv) enclosures that are not stacked or otherwise placed on top of or below another enclosure; and
(v) temperature control that is:
(I) is appropriate for the age, breed, and condition of the dogs in the enclosure; and
(II) is between 45 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit when dogs are present in the enclosure; B that appropriate and nutritious food be provided to each dog at least twice per day, in an amount sufficient to maintain the good health and physical condition of each such dog; C that each dog has continuous access to potable water that is not frozen and is free of feces, algae, and other contaminants; D that each dog has adequate exercise, including (i) For dogs over the age of 12 weeks, un17 restricted access from their primary enclosures 18 during daylight hours to an outdoor exercise area that is—
(I) at ground level;
(II) a solid surface;
(III) enclosed (by a fence or other structure);
(IV) properly controlled for the safety of the dogs; and
(V) allows the dog to extend to full stride, play, and engage in other types of mentally stimulating and social behaviors.
(ii) if the dealer obtains a certification from the attending veterinarian stating that the dog should not have unfettered access to an outdoor exercise area for a specific medical reason, an alternative exercise plan prescribed by the veterinarian for the dog that meets the requirements under section 3.8a of title 9,