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Bill to prevent 'puppy mills' from coming to Michigan currently in consideration by House

The bill not only provides safeguards for animals but also necessary protections for responsible breeders and pet stores.
Credit: Thinkstock
Litter of puppies, stock image.

Longtime veterinarian and Michigan State Representative Hank Vaupel introduced a bill earlier this month that would require breeders to supply their entire U.S. Department of Agriculture inspection reports to pet stores.

Any major violations would prevent the breeder from selling to a pet store in Michigan.

House Bills 5916-17 were introduced on May 1, and are now being discussed in the Michigan House of Representatives.

The goal of these bills is to prevent Michigan pet stores from receiving and selling dogs from unregulated breeders, sometimes known as "puppy mills." The bills will also require all dogs to have a certified health certificate from a licensed veterinarian, to be vaccinated and mirco-chipped and establishes a minimum age for the puppies to be adopted.

"As a veterinarian, I am dedicated to looking out for the health and welfare of all animals," said Vaupel. "This plan will help ensure only reputable pet stores and breeders will be allowed to operate in Michigan. Unscrupulous breeders and stores that don't look out for the safety of their pets have no business in our communities, and this legislation makes it clear."

Vaupel said that the bill not only provides safeguards for animals but also necessary protections for responsible breeders and pet stores.

"We must recognize the responsible breeders and local store owners who pour their hearts and souls into building safe and humane facilities, employ dozens of people and are ingrained in the fabric of local communities across our state," Vaupel said.

The legislation now moves forward to the full House for consideration.

Contact Kayla Daugherty at 517-552-2848 or kdaugherty@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @KayDaugherty92.

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