The bill amends RCW 16.52.310 to establish stricter regulations on dog breeding in Washington State. It reduces the maximum number of dogs with intact sexual organs that a person can own from 50 to 20, and further limits those who keep more than four dogs in an enclosure for the majority of the day. The bill mandates specific requirements for the size and conditions of enclosures, including a minimum height increase from six to 12 inches, and a size increase from three to five times the length and width of the longest dog. Additionally, it requires that each dog over four months old receives at least two hours of exercise daily, up from one hour, and specifies that certain types of exercise equipment are prohibited unless prescribed by a veterinarian.

The legislation also outlines comprehensive standards for housing facilities, including sanitation, ventilation, and protection from extreme weather. It emphasizes the need for veterinary care and establishes that only dogs aged 12 months to eight years may be bred. Violations of these regulations are classified as gross misdemeanors. The bill exempts various entities, such as animal control facilities, veterinary facilities, and grooming facilities, from these regulations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the welfare of dogs in breeding situations by enforcing stricter care and housing standards.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 16.52.310