Historic Actions to Enhance Animal Welfare in the U.S.
(Washington, D.C., February 18, 2026) – In a groundbreaking initiative, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, joined by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr., announced a series of robust measures aimed at holding chronic violators of companion animal welfare accountable. The objective is to eradicate the abhorrent practice of dog fighting and enhance the protection of companion animals.
The Importance of Companion Animals
Currently, dogs are the most beloved pets in the United States, with approximately 65.1 million households owning a pet dog. Notably, around 51% of these pet owners regard their dogs as integral family members.
Secretary Rollins’ Commitment to Animal Welfare
“Let me be clear,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “If you are breeding dogs and not meeting the humane standards outlined in the Animal Welfare Act, your time is up. We cannot allow a few bad actors to tarnish the reputation of responsible breeders or compromise humane treatment. Together, President Trump’s cabinet is united in supporting ethical dog breeders while intensifying enforcement against recurring violators and combatting dog fighting.”
USDA’s Enhanced Oversight Strategies
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has significantly bolstered its oversight of dog breeding facilities over the last fifteen years. Compliance with the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) has surged from 67% in 2015 to over 92% in 2025. In light of existing noncompliance issues, USDA is implementing the following measures:
- Identify and take action against persistent violators through license enforcement, potentially removing chronic offenders from the industry.
- Expand the compliance and enforcement specialist team to investigate unlicensed activities under the AWA.
- Enhance consistency across the industry with improved inspector training and compliance tracking.
- Facilitate information sharing with federal and state agencies to better coordinate inspection efforts.
- Assist local partners in pursuing action against breeders not covered by USDA authority but affecting dog welfare.
Recent Actions Against Noncompliant Breeders
In recent months, USDA has taken decisive action against bad actors, including the cancellation, denial, or revocation of licenses for six breeders who failed to provide humane care. Administrative enforcement cases have been filed against two chronically noncompliant breeders, and referrals have been made to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to target offenders evading compliance inspections.
Public Engagement and Input on Dog Care Standards
In a proactive move, USDA has initiated a Request for Information (RFI) to solicit public and stakeholder feedback on existing standards for humane canine care. This 30-day comment period aims to ensure federal guidelines reflect current best practices and scientific evidence to improve dog welfare.
Enhanced Coordination Against Dog Fighting
This year has seen a surge in high-profile dog fighting cases. In response, USDA and DOJ have established a Memorandum of Understanding to bolster interagency efforts to enforce the AWA with a dedicated focus on dog fighting. Recent prosecutions exemplify the severity of these offenses.
Collaboration with DHS for Humane Treatment
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), particularly its Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency, is working closely with USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) to tackle illegal dog imports and ensure humane treatment practices are followed at U.S. borders.
How You Can Make a Difference
Ensure Ethical Pet Ownership
When considering a pet, potential owners should utilize the USDA Animal Care Public Search Tool to verify the ethical practices of dog breeders and ensure their compliance with humane care standards.
Promote Animal Adoption
USDA is committed to promoting animal adoption. A recent adoption event hosted by Secretary Rollins emphasized responsible pet ownership and the joys of providing rescue animals with forever homes.
File a Complaint if Necessary
If you suspect animal welfare violations, you can report your concerns through the USDA’s Animal Welfare Complaint Form. USDA is dedicated to transparency and will provide updates on its enforcement actions.
###
This revised article is structured with headings, lists, and links to improve readability. It maintains the original information while enhancing clarity and organization for a WordPress integration.
