HB 405 Summary

• Establishes minimum care standards for commercial dog breeders with more than 10 female breeding dogs, requiring sufficient food and water, veterinary care, shelter, adequate space, regular exercise, and rest between breeding cycles.

• Defines "adequate rest between breeding cycles" as limiting female dogs to no more than two litters in any 12-month period.

• Establishes "Dog Cruelty" as a Class C misdemeanor for knowing violations, or Class A misdemeanor for repeat offenders; licensed breeders have 30-180 days to correct serious violations before criminal prosecution.

• Allows the Missouri Department of Agriculture to revoke licenses of breeders who fail to correct serious violations within specified timeframes.

• Becomes effective one year after passage to allow businesses time to modify facilities for compliance.