Dear Legislator,
The lack of protections for both animals and consumers in certain types of kennel environments is a significant problem in our state.
Massachusetts currently has no oversight of breeders or daycare/boarding facilities. The only requirement for anyone with more than four dogs is to obtain a kennel license from the city or town — which is simply not adequate to ensure animal health and welfare.
2731/H. 4564: An Act to Increase Kennel Safety, aka Ollie's Law, would require the Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) to establish reasonable rules and regulations for boarding kennels and daycare facilities.
If an investigation about a dog or humane injury at a boarding or daycare kennel results in an enforcement action, this will be made available on the state's website, to provide consumers with information to help their decision making.
Animal control officers on the local level inspect kennels and, under these bills, would have more guidance for these inspections. Additionally, the state will be able to assist when needed.
A committee, consisting of a variety of stakeholders and experts, will be formed to advise MDAR on these regulations.
We can continue to be a leader for animals in Massachusetts by ensuring that animals across the state are covered by reasonable standards.
Sincerely,
[Name]