Lower Bucks Today

Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) introduced the bipartisan Puppy Protection Act of 2025 alongside Representatives Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Guy Reschenthaler (PA-14), and Jim McGovern (MA-2). This legislation aims to strengthen federal standards for the treatment of dogs in licensed commercial breeding facilities.

The proposed law seeks to update the Animal Welfare Act by closing existing loopholes and establishing humane standards to protect dogs from abuse. Congressman Fitzpatrick emphasized the moral responsibility to prevent animal cruelty, stating, "The Puppy Protection Act is a bipartisan, commonsense step toward strengthening the Animal Welfare Act and ensuring that dogs are treated with the decency, care, and compassion they deserve."

Rep. Panetta highlighted that despite progress under the Animal Welfare Act, many dogs remain subjected to harsh conditions by some breeders. He stated that this act would set stronger standards to ensure animals receive proper care.

Rep. Reschenthaler expressed his commitment to promoting animal welfare legislation and mentioned that this act would hold puppy mills accountable by enforcing higher care standards. Rep. McGovern also voiced his support for introducing this bipartisan bill.

Sara Amundson, President of Humane World Action Fund, pointed out ongoing issues in commercial breeding facilities confirmed by a recent USDA audit. She commended the efforts of Representatives Fitzpatrick, Reschenthaler, McGovern, and Panetta in working towards ending these abuses.

Key provisions of the Puppy Protection Act include required veterinary care, adequate living conditions, prohibitions against harmful breeding practices, and improved socialization requirements for dogs.