Dog breeders have a challenging and rewarding job. From maintaining appropriate shelter and food for their animals, to selling them to the right home, the job is not an easy one. However, if breeders follow the latest pet kennel rules put in place by the September 2013 USDA – APHIS regulations, they will be well prepared for their customers and any inspections.
The kennel rules under the USDA-APHIS are grouped into three distinct categories. These include the care of the dogs, the kennels and shelters, and finally the operations and maintenance of the kennels. The care of the dogs includes daily space and time for exercise as well as interaction with other dogs and humans. Their health must be inspected on a daily basis and any changes in their health must be reported and investigated as soon as possible. The dogs must also have daily and easy access to fresh water and food so that a healthy weight can be maintained. The dogs must also be free of parasites both internally and externally and be on a consistent grooming schedule.
The kennels and shelters must be large enough for a dog to stand, sit, lie down and turn around without being crowded or uncomfortable. The shelters must provide adequate protection from extreme weather, including wind, rain, snow, and extreme heat and cold. The pet kennel rules also require breeders to provide dogs with protection from other dogs if one is aggressive or harms another dog. There also is a requirement for proper lighting that keeps the dogs on a day and night cycle. Bedding must also be available for the dogs that is clean and causes no harm.
The operations of the kennel are the final component of the regulations. The staff must be professional and provide daily care for the animals. Any feces must be picked up as soon as possible and all areas of the kennel must be cleaned and maintained on a schedule. Finally, the USDA-APHIS requires that an emergency plan be put in place as well.
The new USDA-APHIS regulations and pet kennel rules have been created to keep both the dogs and humans safe and protected. The USDA -APHIS does realize that every kennel will have different breeds and therefore sometimes not all the regulations will be followed. Some kennels are more residential than retail, but it is still important to have healthy and well cared for dogs.
Golden Meadows Retrievers adheres to all regulations and sets a very high standard for the health and safety of our dogs. We, at Golden Meadows Retrievers, would never allow our pups to be sold in a pet store or by an outside dealer. For more information about our new shipping guidelines and practices, click HERE.