Protecting puppies

Last year, several legislators pitched a bill that would allow state inspectors to follow up on complaints about so-called “puppy mills” that are federally licensed. It didn't pass.

But one of its big supporters, Rep. Jim Lykam, D-Davenport, has vowed to bring up the issue again this session. He and some animal rights activists, including the Humane Society, say that federal inspectors aren't doing a good enough job to weed out facilities with dirty, cramped conditions that mistreat dogs and deliver unhealthy pets to customers. They argue that Iowa is one of the worst states for puppy mills.

We don't necessarily oppose allowing state inspectors to augment what the U.S. Department of Agriculture is supposed to be doing in overseeing Iowa's 400-plus commercial wholesale dog breeders - those who sell to pet stores, research labs or brokers. State inspectors with the Iowa Department of Agriculture handle breeders who sell directly to the public - about 280 statewide.

But any legislation that comes to a final vote must address several issues:

l If there's verifiable evidence that federal inspectors are overlooking inhumane breeders, what would it take to rectify the situation? The state's five inspectors also handle livestock sale barns, pet shops and other facilities - about 2,100 all told. We don't see how they can take on hundreds of additional cases. Can't USDA step up?

l If not, how would the state, already in the midst of a budget crisis, pay for additional inspectors? The agency's budget has been cut by nearly one-fourth in the past year.

l Leaders with Iowa Federation of Animal Owners say federally licensed operators are being unfairly painted. They claim the biggest problem is unlicensed breeders - they estimate up to 700. Under-the-radar operators account for most of the bad apples, and enforcing existing state law would make a difference, they say.

State officials admit they don't know the true number of unlicensed breeders but did send out about 100 letters of inquiry last year to advise suspected violators of state licensing requirements. Trouble is, the agency doesn't have authority to impose fines on breeders who refuse to comply.

Then beef up the state law. And if there's reason enough to add state inspectors, don't further burden taxpayers or state budgets. Better to increase licensing fees.

To report abuse:

If you have a complaint about a dog breeder:

n For state-licensed facilities, call the Iowa Department of Agriculture, (515) 281-5321

n For federally licensed facilities, call the U.S. Department of Agriculture regional animal care office, (970) 494-7478

n If you suspect a breeder is unlicensed, call either office.