Today the Texas Senate approved SB 876. The bill will require anyone that both owns 5 or more intact females and is engaged in the business of breeding those dogs for sale to secure a state license.
In discussions with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation it has been clarified that this legislation will not impact those that simply own intact dogs, but it will regulate someone that owns five intact female dogs and breeds those dogs, if they sell just one puppy, unless they meet one of the exemptions outlined in the bill.
The bill was amended to exempt those that breed primarily for conformation purposes. Those that breed primarily for conformation purposes are not subject to licensing. Those that breed primarily for hunting, agriculture and for participation in other AKC events were already exempt from the law. An additional amendment appears to also exempt those who breed primarily for one of these purposes but do occasionally sell to a pet home.
AKC greatly appreciates the exemption to protect those that breed for participation all AKC events, including conformation. This amendment was included because of the efforts of hobbyists from across the state that took the time to contact the sponsor and the committee in opposition.
When the Dog and Cat Breeder Act was created several years ago, there was substantial opposition to exempting those that breed for conformation purposes. By securing this exemption it demonstrates that the voices of Texas clubs and hobbyists were heard, and your input was valued.
Concerns Remain, Continue Contacting the House:
AKC remains concerned about the impact of this legislation on many home-based hobbyists. Please contact the House Licensing and Administrative Procedures Committee to express your concerns with SB 876. The contact information for the committee can be found HERE.
HB 2238, a nearly identical version of SB 876, is pending a referral from the House Calendars Committee for consideration on the House floor. Please continue contacting your State Representative with concerns on HB 2238. You can find your State Representative HERE. Be sure to mention you are a constituent when contacting your Representative.
Talking Points:
- For many that breed in their private home, you will be required to open your private homes to inspections when applying for a license and at least every 18 months thereafter.
- This legislation will require you to comply with certain housing standards that were intended to regulate commercial facilities. For example, existing law requires drainage systems for facilities that house dogs.
- You will be required to pay a licensing fee of at least $300.
AKC Government Relations continues to monitor all bills impacting dog owners in Texas. For questions or more information, contact AKC GR at doglaw@akc.org.