Commercial breeding bill advances

A bill that would implement stronger restrictions on commercial dog breeders advanced from general file Feb. 1.

LB427, introduced by Bellevue Sen. Abbie Cornett, originally would have created an outstanding breeder designation.

“We are doing this so animals can live healthier lives and people can have healthier pets,” Cornett said, acknowledging that many breeders in the state already do a good job.

An Agriculture Committee amendment, adopted 38-0, replaces the original bill and would establish new licensure requirements that a breeder:
• groom dogs to ensure very little of their coats are matted;
• maintain individual animal health records;
• publish an updated facility plan annually;
• provide daily exercise and socialization opportunities;
• offer an exercise area at least three times the size of the primary living area;
• identify all animals with a microchip;
• provide sanitary flooring; and
• has a veterinarian conduct a hands-on physical and dental exam once every three years.

Breeders would be required to report serious injuries or medical conditions to veterinarians and would be prohibited from performing surgeries on animals.

Finally, the state Department of Agriculture could deny licensure to any breeder who has had his or her license revoked or has been accused of animal cruelty in another state.

An amendment introduced by Holdrege Sen. Tom Carlson, adopted 37-0, establishes an appeal process for breeders whose license has been revoked due to animal cruelty or neglect allegations. The amendment would temporarily exempt nursing or injured dogs from the daily exercise provision.

Senators voted to advance the bill to select file on a 36-0 vote.