“The issue before this committee is not whether dog is man’s best friend. Impassioned oratory through the ages offers conclusive proof that he is. The issue is whether man will return this friendship.” Congressman George Grider (TN) made this statement in 1966 when the Animal Welfare Act was first debated.

The ‘main’ federal law governing dog and cat breeders is called the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). A tremendous amount of information exists on the Internet explaining and assessing the Animal Welfare Act (pros and cons).

The Animal Welfare Act provides a framework for the humane treatment of certain animals. In the view of many, however, the actual enforcement of the regulations has been ineffective, and the type of animals protected limited.

• USDA: Animal Welfare Act

• Animal Legal & Historical Center: Detailed Discussion of Commercial Breeders and Puppy Mills
• Animal Legal & Historical Center: Overview of U.S. Animal Welfare Act

ANIMAL WELFARE ACT (AWA)

AWA - History
It all started with one stolen dog, named Pepper. The public was outraged and the Animal Welfare Act was created.

AWA - Enactment
Enacted in 1966, the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) is administered by the Animal Care Program of the USDA-APHIS.

AWA - Licensing and Exemptions
The Animal Welfare Act does not protect all animals. It’s critical to look at who is regulated and who is exempt, especially ‘retail pet stores.’

AWA - Standards and Loopholes
The AWA requires that minimum standards of care and treatment be provided. The USDA-APHIS asks breeders, dealers and others to exceed the minimum.

AWA – Inspections
A main concern of the AWA is the lack of violations cited during inspections and the inability or unwillingness to make violators comply.

AWA – Suggestions for Improvements
There are always ways to improve any law and its administration. Companion Animal Protection Society offers suggestions.

AWA – Animal Care Policy Manual
In 2007, the public was asked to submit comments to the Animal Care Policy Manual which sets guidelines for the administration of the AWA.

USDA - Contacts