H.R. 2253: Puppy Protection Act of 2025

Section 13(a) of Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. 2143(a))

adding at the end the following new paragraph: ``(9) In addition to the requirements under paragraph (2), the standards described in paragraph (1) shall, with respect to dealers, include requirements-- ``(A) that such dealer provide adequate housing for dogs that includes-- ``(i) completely solid flooring; ``(ii) indoor space sufficient to allow the tallest dog in an enclosure to stand on its hind legs without touching the roof of the enclosure; ``(iii) with respect to dogs over 8 weeks in age, primary enclosures that, with the length of the dog measured from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, provide at least-- ``(I) 12 square feet of indoor floor space per each dog not more than 25 inches long; ``(II) 20 square feet of indoor floor space per each dog more than 25 but not more than 35 inches long; and ``(III) 30 square feet of indoor floor space per each dog more than 35 inches long; ``(iv) enclosures that are not stacked or otherwise placed on top of or below another enclosure; and ``(v) temperature control that-- ``(I) is appropriate for the age, breed, and condition of the dogs in the enclosure; and ``(II) is between 45 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, when dogs are present in the enclosure; ``(B) that appropriate and nutritious food be provided to each dog at least twice per day, in an amount sufficient to maintain the good health and physical condition of each such dog, except when fasting is directed by a licensed veterinarian in the provision of appropriate veterinary care; ``(C) that each dog has continuous access to potable water that is not frozen and is free of feces, algae, and other contaminants; ``(D) that each dog has adequate exercise, including-- ``(i) for dogs over the age of 12 weeks, an outdoor exercise area that-- ``(I) is freely accessible from the primary enclosures of such dogs; ``(II) is at ground-level; ``(III) is a solid surface; ``(IV) is enclosed (by a fence or other structure); ``(V) is properly controlled for the safety of the dogs; ``(VI) allows the dog to extend to full stride, play, and engage in other types of mentally stimulating and social behaviors; and ``(VII) is restricted only during nighttime hours (between sunset and sunrise) or during severe inclement weather; or ``(ii) if the dealer obtains a certification from the attending veterinarian stating that the dog should not have unrestricted access to an outdoor exercise area for a specific medical reason, an alternative exercise plan prescribed by the veterinarian for the dog that meets the requirements under section 3