Bill > SB232

This bill revises Ohio's law governing high volume dog breeders by modifying definitions and establishing more comprehensive care standards for dog breeding facilities. The bill redefines a "high volume breeder" as an establishment with six or more breeding dogs that sells adult dogs or puppies to dog brokers, pet stores, or the public, which is a broader definition than the previous law. It introduces detailed requirements for dog care, including specific provisions about food, water, enclosure size, flooring, temperature regulation, exercise, veterinary care, and overall animal welfare. Breeders must now provide daily exercise, environmental enrichment, and at least 15 minutes of human interaction per day for dogs. The bill also limits female dogs to producing no more than eight litters in their lifetime and mandates annual veterinary examinations. Additionally, the legislation expands inspection rights for agricultural directors, allowing them to conduct unannounced inspections of breeding facilities and potentially impose costs on facilities that obstruct inspections. The changes aim to improve living conditions and health standards for dogs in commercial breeding operations, ensuring more humane treatment and better oversight of these facilities.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb232