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Dog Breeders and the Animal Welfare Act

SheepdogThe Animal Welfare Act requires the humane care and treatment of dogs sold as pets at the wholesale level, transported in commerce, and used in research or exhibits. Individuals using or working with such animals must be licensed or registered by USDA. They must also comply with regulations and standards enforced by the Department’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Although the Act generally does not cover domestic pets in retail stores, APHIS inspects the wholesale dealers that supply such stores with dogs and cats. While the majority of these animal breeders and dealers are committed to raising and selling physically and psychologically healthy pets, regulation is necessary to ensure that all of these operations provide adequate care.

In the News

Animal Care's Regulation of Commercial Animal Dealers:
Q and A's

Related Documents

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The Animal Welfare Act: An Overview

Regulation of Commercial Animal Dealers

Compliance Inspections

The Animal Care Program and U. S. Department of Agriculture's Authority Under the Animal Welfare Act: Basic Q and A's

Frequently Requested Inspection Reports for Breeders and Dealers

Informational Resources

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Animal Welfare


 

 

Last Modified: April 4, 2008

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