H.R. 5041/S. 2555, the so-called “Better CARE for Animals Act”, will do precisely the opposite of its name by removing crucial animal experts from the chain of animal welfare oversight. For this reason, the American Kennel Club (AKC) is urging all responsible dog owners to contact their Member of Congress and U.S. Senators and to ask them to oppose and not co-sponsor this dangerous legislation. 

This bill shifts enforcement of dog breeder licensing under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). This would circumvent oversight authority by an agency staffed by animal experts that focuses on improving animal husbandry, and instead place it with one with little or no animal expertise that focuses on violations as potential federal crimes. 

H.R. 5041/S. 2555 would also empower the DOJ to file charges, seize animals and impose penalties regardless of whether USDA has determined or even alleged that there has been a violation of the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). 

Talking Points: 

• Removing subject matter expertise will undermine both animal care and enforcement of violations – not improve them. 
• DOJ does not have staff, veterinarians or experts in animal husbandry and behavior that are experienced in evaluating AWA compliance or enforcement. 
• Rather than creating more efficiency, H.R. 5041/S. 2555 creates redundant and potentially conflicting authorities and jurisdictions. This will cause greater bureaucracy and expand the backlog of cases at the DOJ. 
• H.R. 5041/S. 2555 is unnecessary as the USDA already can and does seek assistance from DOJ when appropriate. 
• H.R. 5041/S. 2555 allows owners to be forced to pay for the costs of care of seized animals by non-government entities while legal proceedings are pending, regardless of the outcome – with no provision for restitution.

Call you’re your members of the U.S. House and Senate today! Ask them to not support or co-sponsor the Better CARE for Animals Act.

Tell them that a better, more effective solution would be to support additional financial resources for USDA so they can appropriately enforce the requirements they already have.

In this way, the comprehensive federal Animal Welfare Act can be fully and appropriately enforced by those with the greatest expertise – ensuring the best possible care for animals.

The American Kennel Club Government Relations Department (AKC GR) is continuing to advocate on your behalf in Congress, as well as the state and local levels. For questions or more information on legislation impacting breeders and how you can help, contact AKC GR at (919) 816-3761 or [email protected].