The Indiana House of Representatives has passed a major overhaul of their former anti-cruelty laws, this time taking direct aim at puppy mills.

The bill sets up basic, minimum standards for mass breeders including cleanliness standards, construction requirements (no harmful wire cage floors), and adequate heating, cooling, and ventilation. No more than 30 breeding dogs may be kept in any facility, and females will be limited to one litter per year. A minimum of one hour of daily exercise outside the cage, for each dog, is also required.

Pet stores selling dogs will be required to furnish prospective buyers with detailed information about a dog’s origins as well as detailed veterinary records. People who purchase a dog that proves to be ill or suffering from any congenital problems will be entitled to a full refund.

The bipartisan bill also prohibits persons convicted of animal cruelty from owning any other animals and makes it a crime to neglect a dog by failing to provide food, shelter, or medical care. Existing penalties have also been strengthened.

Posted by Anne-n-Spencer February 22nd, 2009 under Muttsblog.