S. 4437: Puppy Protection Act of 2026

The Puppy Protection Act of 2026 aims to enhance the welfare of dogs bred and sold by dealers by amending the Animal Welfare Act. Here’s a breakdown of what the bill would do:

Additional Requirements for Dealers

The bill introduces specific standards for dog treatment by dealers, which include:

• Housing Standards: Dealers must provide adequate indoor housing that includes:
  • Solid flooring
  • Sufficient height for the tallest dog to stand without touching the roof
  • Minimum space based on the size of the dog (ranging from 12 to 30 square feet)
  • No stacked or overlapping enclosures
  • Temperature control between 45 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit
• Nutrition: Dogs must receive appropriate and nutritious food at least twice daily, sufficient for maintaining their health.
• Water Access: Continuous access to clean, potable water is required, ensuring it is free from contamination.
• Exercise: Dogs over 12 weeks old must have unrestricted access to an outdoor exercise area during daylight hours, or an alternative exercise plan if medically required.
• Socialization: Dogs must have at least 30 minutes of beneficial social interaction with humans and other compatible dogs each day.
• Veterinary Care: Adequate veterinary care is required, including:
  • Prompt treatment for illness or injury
  • Annual health examinations with dental checks
  • Core vaccinations and parasite prevention as advised by a veterinarian
• Safe Breeding Practices: This includes:
  • Screening for inheritable diseases before breeding
  • Restrictions on the number of litters produced by a dog
  • Age restrictions for breeding based on the size of the dog
  • Veterinarian supervision for any caesarian sections
• Retired Breeding Dogs: Dealers must make reasonable efforts to find humane placements for retired breeding dogs, avoiding sale at auctions or to other breeders.

Implementation Timeline

The Secretary of Agriculture is required to issue regulations within 18 months following the enactment of the act, outlining the standards for the care of dogs as stipulated in the bill.

Conforming Amendments

The bill also includes amendments to existing sections of the Animal Welfare Act to align the new requirements with the current regulatory framework.

Relevant Companies

• PETS - PetMed Express: May be affected due to potential changes in demand for products related to dog care and health, considering stricter requirements for breeders and dealers.
• CHWY - Chewy, Inc.: As an online pet product retailer, they might see changes in product demand based on the bill's requirements for care and supplies.