Federal Level (U.S. Congress):

• House and Senate Agriculture Committees: These committees have primary legislative jurisdiction over the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). The AWA is the main federal law that regulates the treatment of animals in various settings, including those used for commercial sale (which can include breeders supplying pets), research, exhibition, and transport. While the AWA doesn’t directly regulate pet training methods, it sets minimum standards for animal care and welfare that can indirectly affect the training and care industry.
  • Relevant Subcommittees: Within these committees, subcommittees dealing with livestock, food safety, or general agricultural research might touch upon aspects of pet welfare.

Federal Agencies and Departments (often working with Congress):

• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS): APHIS is responsible for administering and enforcing the Animal Welfare Act. They set and enforce regulations for licensed and registered entities, which can include certain commercial breeders and dealers whose animals might enter the pet market. They also provide guidance on animal care and welfare.
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA): The FDA regulates pet food, drugs, and devices for animals. While not directly about training, the safety of pet products is crucial for pet care.
• Department of Justice (DOJ) / ADA.gov: The Department of Justice is responsible for enforcing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which includes regulations regarding service animals. This impacts the training and access of service animals.

State Level:

• State Legislative Committees: Most states have committees that address issues related to agriculture, commerce, public health, or consumer affairs. These committees are often the primary drivers of legislation related to:
  • Pet sales and breeding regulations: (e.g., “puppy mill” bans, pet store regulations, licensing for breeders).
  • Animal cruelty laws: While broad, these can impact neglect or abuse in training and care settings.
  • Service animal laws: State laws often supplement federal ADA guidelines.
  • Veterinary practice acts: Regulating veterinary care, which is a core component of pet care.
  • Pet insurance regulations: As seen in Florida, states are increasingly regulating the sale of pet insurance.
• State Departments of Agriculture or Animal Control: These agencies often administer and enforce state-level animal welfare laws and regulations, including those affecting pet businesses.