Note by: Abigail Barford

In this note, Abigail Barford explores the lack of regulation over dog breeding in Kentucky, particularly the harms caused by puppy mills and backyard breeders. Barford explains that loopholes in the Animal Welfare Act and Kentucky’s absence of state-level protections contribute to dog overpopulation, inhumane conditions, environmental damage, and financial burdens on taxpayers. Barford argues for Kentucky to adopt strong breeding regulations modeled on Pennsylvania’s laws and its own equine breeding system. She proposes statewide legislation to license breeders, enforce humane standards of care, and regulate small-scale breeding to curb overpopulation and protect animal welfare.

Puppy Dog Eyes: Begging for Treats and the Regulation of Dog Breeding

Note by: Abigail Barford

In this note, Abigail Barford explores the lack of regulation over dog breeding in Kentucky, particularly the harms caused by puppy mills and backyard breeders. Barford explains that loopholes in the Animal Welfare Act and Kentucky’s absence of state-level protections contribute to dog overpopulation, inhumane conditions, environmental damage, and financial burdens on taxpayers. Barford argues for Kentucky to adopt strong breeding regulations modeled on Pennsylvania’s laws and its own equine breeding system. She proposes statewide legislation to license breeders, enforce humane standards of care, and regulate small-scale breeding to curb overpopulation and protect animal welfare.

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