Overview
- At Big Dog Ranch Rescue, Gov. Ron DeSantis outlined a 2026 agenda to curb inhumane dog breeding and negligent operations across Florida.
- The plan asks the Department of Business and Professional Regulation to license breeders, run a public registry, and enforce standards developed with the agriculture department.
- The governor also urged stiffer punishments for people who abuse or torture animals in front of minors.
- An abuse-reporting hotline would be created, and pet stores would be asked to prioritize floor space for local shelter adoptions before selling breeder-supplied dogs.
- Consumer measures include clearer pricing and accurate veterinary bills of health, with the proposals now requiring bill drafting and passage after similar efforts stalled in 2025.