For Immediate Release
September 25, 2008
Contact: Kristin Ebersole-Crawford
717- 787-4420
Back

Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee Amends and Passes HB2525

HARRISBURG – House Bill 2525 was passed yesterday by the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee with amendments, according to Committee Chairman Senator Mike Brubaker. This bill, known as the Dog Law, sets a higher standard for commercial kennels in Pennsylvania.

"The number one priority of HB 2525 was and continues to be the assurance that dogs living in commercial breeding operations are provided with a humane and healthy environment," stated Brubaker.  "The amendments to this bill hold to that priority as well."

Changes to the bill include allowing for slatted flooring instead of only a solid floor, providing for indoor exercise if an outdoor exercise area would be prohibited by the local government in which the kennel is located, and allowing for kennel owners who are certified to continue to give rabies vaccinations to their dogs.  Additionally, a Canine Health Board made up of veterinarians is established to set standards for ventilation and lighting, and may approve flooring options in addition to that provided for in law.

"I have said many times that we should raise the bar on commercial breeding operations," Brubaker said.  "Pennsylvania has numerous quality breeders who provide a valued service that the public demands and as amended, this proposal will allow those breeders to continue to operate."

"It is clear that this is an important issue to many Pennsylvanian's and I will continue to do what I can to see this process through to completion," said Brubaker.

House Bill 2525 was referred to the Senate Appropriations Committee on September 24, 2008.  It could receive final consideration the week of October 6 when the Senate returns to session.