Rendell Says New Online Dog Kennel Inspection Database will Help Consumers

News Date May 14, 2007

Pennsylvania consumers now can access timely, complete inspection records for the state's 2,600 licensed dog kennels, Governor Edward G. Rendell said this week. The new online database is part of the Governor's commitment to improving conditions for dogs in the state. 

The records can be accessed at http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/padoglaw.
 
"Pennsylvania is taking action to improve consumer knowledge and provide better care for dogs in kennels across the state," Rendell said. "This new access to kennel inspection records will help consumers know the conditions of kennels--where they might purchase a dog or board their dog while they travel so they can make better decisions about the welfare of their pets." 

At Rendell's direction, the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has invested in technology to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of dog kennel inspections. The new inspection and data management tool, PA Dogs, allows more accurate and useful record-keeping and will allow the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement to better analyze the data collected than the outdated paper and electronic records used previously. 

"We're bringing today's technology to dog kennel inspections and record keeping," said Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff. "We have now fully implemented this technology and trained our dog wardens to maximize its potential. Thanks to this investment, we now have the ability to post kennel inspections and analyze the data we collect." 

Dog wardens now use tablet PCs to conduct their inspections, which give them immediate access to records and information relating to the kennels. The new technology also allows dog wardens to immediately file inspections using wireless internet connections and reduces the time they need to spend in the office. The inspection records are electronically updated in the kennel inspection database, which the public can now access. 

In 2006, Rendell proposed sweeping changes to the state's dog law and related state regulations that are designed to improve the conditions under which dogs are bred and sold in Pennsylvania. The governor also appointed a special deputy secretary in charge of dog law, a special prosecutor for dog law cases and an enforcement team focused on investigation and enforcement in kennels. 

For more information on Pennsylvania's dog laws, visit http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/padoglaw. (Contact: Chris L. Ryder, 717/787-5085)