By Bob Katzen

The House 159-0, approved and sent to the Senate legislation that would allow the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources to establish rules and regulations for dog kennels in the Bay State, to ensure animal welfare, protect consumers and keep kennel staff safe.

Requirements include, obtaining a license from the municipality, an annual inspection, dog to staff ratio specifications, injury reporting, indoor and outdoor physical facility requirements, insurance and minimal housing and care requirements.

Supporters said that currently, the state has no oversight of dog daycare or boarding kennels. They argued it is estimated that a dog is injured or killed every nine to ten days in Massachusetts at these kennels. They noted that many families in Massachusetts have suffered the loss or injury of an animal at a dog daycare or kennel that could have been avoided by commonsense regulations over these facilities.

“I filed this bill on behalf of my constituent, Amy Baxter, whose 7-month-old puppy was attacked by other dogs at a boarding kennel in my district,” said Rep. Brian Ashe (D-Longmeadow). “Sadly, Ollie eventually succumbed to his many injuries. People assume these facilities are regulated by the state and have safety protocols in place. Many already do, however, far too many do not, leaving animals and staff at risk. I and the Coalition that was formed, wanted to do everything possible to prevent these types of situations from occurring again. I am proud of this legislation and know it will make a difference in the lives of pets and consumers.“

(A “Yes” vote is for the bill.)

Rep. Christine Barber Yes Rep. Mike Connolly Yes Rep. Paul Donato Yes Rep. Erika Uyterhoeven Yes