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Miracle in Missouri: Gov, activists, breeders reach deal on kennel bill

Last week lawmakers in Missouri - the puppy mill capital of the nation - scuttled Proposition B - the voter-approved referendum to make commercial kennels more humane.

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Miracle in Missouri: Gov, activists, breeders reach deal on kennel bill

POSTED: Tuesday, April 19, 2011, 12:01 AM

Amy Worden, Inquirer Staff Writer

Last week it looked like Proposition B, "The Puppy Mill Cruelty Prevention Act," in Missouri was dead.

Lawmakers in the puppy mill capital of the nation had scuttled the voter-approved referendum aimed at making commercial kennels - of which there are more than 1,000 - more humane.

Today Gov. Nixon announced a deal to save the major provisions of the proposition, drawing praise from animal welfare advocates, breeders and the farm lobby alike.

"The agreement that was signed today upholds the intent of the voters, protects dogs and ensures that Missouri agriculture will continue to grow," said Nixon in a statement.

Prop B was similar to Pennsylvania's 2008 dog law in that it required larger cage sizes, exercise and mandatory vet care - provisions that remain under the deal.

Gone are the requirements to limit the number of breeding dogs to no more than 50 and gives breeders more time to make changes.

Bob Baker, executive director of the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation, one of the groups that signed the agreement, said it was a fair compromise.

"This new legislative effort will help restore many of the standards of care contained in Prop B and will help ensure the humane treatment of dogs confined in commercial breeding establishments," said Baker, who over the past 30 years has also helped craft kennel legislation in Pennsylvania.

Now Nixon is expected to work to get a new bill through the legislature by the May 13 deadline.

More from the St. Louis Post Dispatch here.

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About this blog

Amy Worden is a politics and government reporter for the Inquirer. In that capacity she has explored a range of animal issues from dog kennel law improvements and horse slaughter to the comeback of peregrine falcons and pigeon hunts. From hamsters to horses, animals have always been part of her life. To pass along a tip or contact Amy, click here. Reach Amy at aworden@phillynews.com.