Pennsylvania's current dog law, written in 1982, treats all types of dog breeders the same – whether they breed two dozen or 2000 dogs. It is currently legal for breeding dogs to live their entire lives in small, wire-floored cages stacked upon one another, and for owners and breeders to perform surgical procedures on their dogs. A legislative package (House Bills 2525, 2532 and 499) recently introduced proposes sweeping changes to the state's dog and animal cruelty laws. H.B. 2525 Would vastly improve living conditions and standards of care for dogs in Pennsylvania's commercial kennels, and set minimum standards for the safety and health of all dogs in Pennsylvania.

Rep. Harkins under attack by his Yorkie, Scruffy

Among other things, the bill would:

• Double the minimum floor space for cages
• Make sure breeding dogs get exercise
• Require solid flooring in cages
• Prohibit cage stacking
• Require veterinary care

H.B. 2532
Would prohibit dog owners from performing tail docking on dogs more than three days old, debarking (cutting or destroying a dog’s vocal cords) and cesarean sections and instead require the procedures be performed by a licensed veterinarian.

Currently, owners and breeders, with no formal training, are within the scope of the law to conduct the procedures.

The legislation would also permit dog wardens to file cruelty charges against kennels when there is no humane society police officer to do so.

H.B. 499
Would hold owners responsible for their actions by making them foot the bill for their seized animals’ care while they are at the shelter. An irresponsible owner who refuses to pay would be forced to abandon the animal. The bill would also impose and increase fines under the dog law for convicted violators.