Tampa, Fla. (WFLA) – More regulations could be made when it comes to breeding dogs in Florida.
Megweinburger, a Republican lawmaker from Palm Beach Gardens, introduced House Bill 1481 to add dog breeding rules. Lawmakers have named the bill “make American dogs safe again.”
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She hopes to crack down on puppy factories and operations that lead to abuse and neglect. She said specifically that backyard breeding was an example.
“Preserve the animals. Make sure people are treating them correctly,” Weinberger said.
The lawmaker also said he hopes to prevent overcrowding of shelters and use taxpayer dollars to euthanize animals.
The bill defines “dog breeders” as those who have dogs of dogs over six months old and offer them to dogs for sale or exchange.
The law also indicates that breeders must register with the state, submit for testing, and be listed in a public database. Weinburger said this would help consumers make safe choices if they chose this option instead of shelter.
The American Kennel Club does not support the bill currently written. Policy Director PhilGuidery has several concerns, including creating a public database for all dog breeders.
“It also provides basically anti-breeder activists with the opportunity to go to their homes and harass breeders,” Guidry said.
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His organization also disagrees with making definitions listed in the bill, such as defining the term “dog breeder.” Guidry said the language that defines “breeding facilities” is defined as the location where at least one bitch can be reproduced. He fears that if the bill is passed and the law is signed, it would mean that ordinary pet owners must follow the state’s new dog breeding rules.
“This fundamental conception that everyone who has an unharmed woman is bad, or that dog breeders are bad is a problem with the scope here,” Guidely said.
Wineburger said that the average pet owner is not a target.
“That’s a misconception. It has nothing to do with the bill. You don’t have to leave your dog. This is if you are a breeder selling your dog and you have to be a certain age to breed,” Weinberger said.
Lawmakers said she relied on information and suggestions from the American Kennel Club website to draft the bill.
“If they really were talking to us, they’d realize we’re all together. They care about the integrity of the animals and the integrity of the breed. We have nothing to breed. We just need to breed responsible,” Weinberger said.
However, the Director of Policy Director said the proposed regulations need to be more specific to reflect breeders and care levels for different types of dogs.
“If Florida wants to establish a regulatory program, let’s be reasonably rational in terms of scope and nature,” Guidry said.
The bill and its Senate companion, SB 1830, are passing through the room.
State Senator Linda Chaney, who covers St. Pete Beach, supports the measure. She also has animal-related bills, including strengthening penalties for animal abuse.
