The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) is responsible for oversight of these federally-licensed facilities and had allowed Gingerich to continue operating in spite of amassing 190 violations of the Animal Welfare Act over a period of months. While 514 dogs were ultimately saved, many were not, including a Golden Retriever nicknamed Goldie. The USDA saw Goldie, including her emaciated condition, during one inspection visit, but took no action. She was allowed to deteriorate further until eventually, when found again during a later visit in spite of Gingerich's attempt to hide her from inspectors, she had to be euthanized on site.
In response to this horrific situation, which the USDA allowed to continue for months, US Representative Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY11) has introduced, along with Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA03) as an original cosponsor, a bipartisan bill, named "Goldie's Act" in memory of this long-suffering dog. Goldie's Act will require better enforcement of the provisions of the Animal Welfare Act by the USDA.
Goldie's Act (H.R. 349) mandates USDA inspectors document and report all observed violations of the AWA. It will also improve cross-reporting of these violations between the USDA and local and state authorities.
Specifically, H.R. 349 requires the USDA to:
- Conduct more frequent and meaningful inspections
- Confiscate animals that are suffering
- Impose deterring monetary penalties for violations, and
- Share inspection information in a timely manner with local law enforcement.
Please take a moment to contact your representative in support of Goldie's Act. If Rep. Nunn is your congressional representative, thank him for introducing this important piece of legislation. If you live elsewhere in Iowa, ask your representative to cosponsor the bill and support it whenever they have an opportunity.
It's too late for Goldie, but there are thousands of other animals in puppy mills across the nation who need your help today.