WASHINGTON (AP) — The head of the Humane Society says a report on puppy mills confirms what animal rights groups have been charging for years.
The report says the Department of Agriculture agency in charge of enforcing the Animal Welfare Act isn't doing a very good job.
Humane Society chief Wayne Pacelle says the laws are weak and enforcement is lax." He says there's a "built-in conflict of interest" having animal welfare enforcement within an agency dedicated to promoting American agriculture.
Federal investigators have uncovered grisly conditions at puppy mills around the country. Dogs have been found in pools of feces, infested with ticks and living with gaping wounds.
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says he'll work to immediately improve enforcement, penalties and inspector training. He says the investigation was conducted before he took office.
