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Pennsylvania Taking Action to Protect Dogs, Improve Kennels
Governor Edward G. Rendell has signed into law legislation that will help Pennsylvania to rid its reputation as the ‘Puppy Mill Capitol of the East.’
House Bill 2525, now Act 119, will greatly improve the treatment dogs receive while in commercial kennels. Under the old law, dogs could spend their entire lives in cramped, stacked cages with no opportunity to exercise and very little care. But no more. Now, dogs will benefit from larger cage sizes without wire flooring, and mandatory exercise periods and care by a trained veterinarian.
These improvements will help to ensure that the pets families one day welcome into their home will be happier and healthier.
Pennsylvania Kennel Inspections
You can now view dog kennel inspection record online, and print a copy of the actual inspection form.
Note: you will need to enable pop-ups to view kennel inspection reports
Click here to enter the Kennel Inspection Database
Toll-Free Dog Law Tipline
Call 1-877-DOG-TIP1 (1-877-364-8471) to offer confidential tips about unsatisfactory kennels.
Pennsylvania Kennel Applications
Please note that it is the kennel owner’s responsibility to complete the application independent of the Bureau. While we are happy to answer general questions, kennel owner’s who are uncertain regarding answers to specific questions may wish to consult with a professional who is skilled in providing assistance in such matters.
General questions regarding the application can be directed to Ms. Bernadette Miller at (717) 772-4365.
Kennel owners who desire to voluntarily close their kennel should feel free to consult with the Bureau / your dog warden for help in re-homing kennel dogs. We are very willing to provide assistance in locating opportunities for placement of dogs.
Kennel License Application (PDF)
Kennel Closure Application (PDF)
Letter to Kennel Owners, Dec. 12, 2008 (PDF)
Waiver of Commercial Kennel Requirements cover letter (PDF)
Waiver of Commercial Kennel Requirements (Word)
The Bureau of Dog Law is charged with the following responsibilities:
· Enforcing licensing and control of dogs
· Enforcing kennel licensing and inspections
· Investigating dog bites
· Seizing and detaining any dog seen running at large
· Reimbursing individuals for dog-caused damage to livestock, poultry and domestic game birds
· Establishing and enforcing the quarantine of dogs in certain areas when required
· Funding counties and humane organizations to establish dog control facilities
· Providing educational services concerning dog ownership in Pennsylvania
· Enforcing the Pennsylvania Rabies Law
What are Pennsylvania’s Dog Laws?
· All dogs three months of age or older must be licensed. Licenses are issued by the County Treasurer
· All dogs must be under control and must not be allowed to run at large. Dogs are personal property, and owners are responsible for damages caused their dog.
· It is illegal to mistreat or abuse any animal. Violations should be reported to a local humane organization or the police.
· It is illegal to abandon or attempt to abandon any dog.
· No dog under eight weeks of age may be sold, traded, bartered or transferred.
· You may not place any poison or harmful substance in any place where dogs may easily eat it, whether it is your own property or elsewhere.
· You must have a current kennel license if you operate a facility that keeps, harbors, boards, shelters, sells, gives away or transfers a total of 26 or more dogs in any one calendar year.
· Owners of dogs and cats 3 months of age or older are required to have a current rabies vaccination. It is illegal to interfere with an officer or employee of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture engaged in enforcement of dog laws.
Puppy Lemon Law:
In an effort to ensure that consumers buying a dog in Pennsylvania know thier new pet has a clean bill of health, Pennsylvania's dog sellers and breeders must now post a visible notice that informs consumers of their rights under the state's Dog Purchaser Protection Act, also known as the "Puppy Lemon Law". Sellers and breeders must also provide a written copy of the consumer's rights at the time of the sale.
For more information on Pennsylvania's "Puppy Lemon Law", or to file a complaint, visit the Office of the Attorney General, Bureau of Consumer Protection web site at: http://www.attorneygeneral.gov/consumers.aspx?id=163
Additional Resources:
· For information about Pennsylvania’s Dog Laws
· Dog Law Annual Reports
· County Treasurers
· Dog Bite Regulations
· Dog Law Frequently Asked Questions
· Dog Warden Listing
· Pennsylvania Dog Law (PDF)
· PA Dog License
· Damage Claims
· Register a complaint
· Pennsylvania Shelter Listing (PDF)
· 2009 Grant Application Form (PDF)
· 2009 Grant Program Guidelines & Conditions
For more information, please contact:
Susan West
Director, Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement
2301 N Cameron Street
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Email: suewest@state.pa.us
Ph: (717) 787-4833
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