Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association

Position Statement on Regulation of Dog and Cat Breeders

The Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association would support Regulating Dog and Cat Breeders under the following guidelines:

· Breeders should comply with existing federal, state and local animal welfare and animal cruelty laws

· The Board of Animal Health is the overseeing body for inspection and enforcement of breeder legislation.

· While the size of the breeding operation does not determine the quality of the facility, only large facilities should fall under mandatory inspection. However, any facility regardless of size, may be inspected upon valid complaint.

Important Dog and Cat husbandry practices:

· To minimize behavioral problems, including aggression, puppies between 3 weeks and 14 weeks of age should be socialized to a variety of people, animals and environments.

· Cats and Dogs require daily exercise.

· Animals should be provided with appropriate health care including: Nutrition appropriate to life cycle and life style, control and treatment of parasites, appropriate immunizations, diagnosis and disease specific treatments in consultation with a licensed veterinarian