Puppy PHOTO: WRN
A new state rule that takes effect today to combat poorly operated puppy mills is earning praise from animal shelter operators. The new law places restrictions on dog breeders and requires facilities that sell 25 or more animals a year to be licensed and inspected.
Fond du Lac Humane Society shelter manager Renee Wagner says it’s heartbreaking to see the way dogs are raised by some breeders. The industry has drawn criticism many because animals have often not been properly cared for, are malnourished, and can be prone to disease.
Wagner says dogs will now have to be supplied with adequate food and water each day and be properly housed. She says many of the requirements are just common sense, since the animals should be provided with a basic level of care.
The new law also requires that a veterinarian examine a dog before it is sold. While that’s not fool-proof, Wagner says it will reduce the number of incidents where someone buys a dog that turns out to be sick or fatally ill.
The new requirement does also apply to the Humane Society shelters.
Bob Nelson, KFIZ
