Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), was joined by Representatives Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), and Jim McGovern (MA-2) to introduce the bipartisan Puppy Protection Act of 2025—a vital step forward in ensuring stronger federal standards for the treatment of dogs in licensed commercial breeding facilities.
This commonsense legislation aims to update and enhance the Animal Welfare Act, closing loopholes and establishing humane, science-based standards of care to protect dogs from abuse and neglect.
“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, I believe we have a moral responsibility to protect animals from cruelty and neglect—especially those suffering in large-scale commercial breeding operations,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick. “The Puppy Protection Act is a bipartisan, commonsense step toward strengthening the Animal Welfare Act and ensuring that dogs are treated with the decency, care, and compassion they deserve. I’m proud to lead this legislation alongside Representatives Panetta, Reschenthaler, and McGovern, and will continue fighting to give a voice to the voiceless and uphold the humane treatment of all animals.”
“Although the Animal Welfare Act has made progress in protecting animals, too many dogs are still subjected to harsh, inhumane conditions by a few irresponsible breeders,” said Rep. Panetta. “The Puppy Protection Act would build on existing safeguards by setting stronger, commonsense standards to ensure these animals are treated with care and dignity. This bipartisan effort is about holding those bad actors accountable and trying to make sure that dogs being bred are in safe, humane conditions.”
“As a member of the Animal Protection Caucus, I am committed to championing legislation that promotes animal welfare,” said Rep. Reschenthaler. “Too many dogs currently suffer from inhumane conditions and abuse at the hands of commercial breeders. The Puppy Protection Act will protect these animals and put puppy mills on a short leash by holding them to a higher standard of care. I look forward to partnering with my colleagues to bring this commonsense bill to the House floor.”
“Despite the Animal Welfare Act, too many dogs are still treated inhumanely by bad-actor commercial breeders and spend their whole lives in conditions that most dog owners would find cruel and completely unacceptable,” said Rep. McGovern. “I’m proud to join Representatives Fitzpatrick, Panetta, and Reschenthaler in introducing this important bipartisan bill.”
“In America, our dogs are family, and we expect them to be raised in safe, humane conditions. Yet, tens of thousands are suffering needlessly in large-scale commercial breeding facilities. In fact, a recent audit from USDA's Office of Inspector General confirmed our worst fears that egregious acts against these dogs have continued to be overlooked." said Sara Amundson, President of Humane World Action Fund. “The Puppy Protection Act sets a higher standard of care for these animals. We commend the bipartisan leadership of Representatives Fitzpatrick, Reschenthaler, McGovern, and Panetta in working to end the worst abuses in commercial breeding and protect the dogs we welcome into our homes as beloved companions.”
Key Provisions of the Puppy Protection Act Include:
- Required veterinary care and routine health screenings
- Adequate space, temperature control, and access to outdoor exercise
- Clean, safe, and comfortable living conditions
- Prohibitions against harmful breeding practices
- Improved socialization and enrichment requirements
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