Posted: March 6, 2009, 5 a.m. EST
Commercial dog breeders in the state of Florida may face various regulations, including ownership limits, should a new bill become law.
The act introduced in the Florida House of Representatives, HB 1249 by Rep. Darren Soto, states that it would prohibit owning, possessing, controlling, or otherwise having custody of 50 or more dogs at a time. Additionally, it requires those who own or otherwise have custody of 10 or more dogs that are 4 months or older to follow specified guidelines relating to things such as exercise, kennel size, sanitation, ventilation, and access to veterinary care.
If adopted, HB 1249 and identical bill Senate Bill 2002 would also set the following provisions:
Ban tail docking and ear cropping except by a licensed veterinarian.
Authorize animal control and police officers, after receiving complaint or upon his or her own initiative, to probe alleged violations.
A violation of the act is a first-degree misdemeanor, allowing up to one year in jail.
The act would take effect January 1, 2010.
- Get the latest updates about dog-related legislation -