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Winona County is known as the "Puppy Mill Capitol of Minnesota." This is due to the fact that, for years, the county has issued numerous local permits to large-scale dog breeding operations.
Your voice was heard! But the legal process continues.... For years, residents have submitted data to the Winona County board with concerns about the welfare of dogs in large-scale dog breeding kennels (puppy mills), where the business model is to mass produce puppies for sale, primarily, to brokers and pet stores nationwide. The county board listened to concerns, reviewed the data, and took action. Specific motions were made at the November 2024 county board meeting to amend the zoning ordinance to: 1) ban future permits for these kennels and 2) assess standards, conditions, and other factors for the existing (already permitted) kennels. Next steps: It's not over yet. County staff prepared the amendment language to the zoning ordinance per the motions above. Another Public Hearing has been scheduled. Learn more at: Take Action. Learn more about the ISSUE. Questions? Go to FAQ. |
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Puppy mills mass produce puppies for profit.
Adult breeding dogs are kept confined in the kennels for years and bred repeatedly. Puppies are pulled at 8 weeks and shipped to brokers and pet stores. |
WHAT IS A PUPPY MILL?A puppy mill is a facility with numerous adult dogs confined in cages and pens for the mass production of puppies.
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WHO ARE THE BREEDERS?Multiple dog breeding facilities operate in Winona County; most kennels are located in
Utica and St. Charles. |
WHAT IS A PERMIT?A conditional use permit
(CUP) or interim use permit (IUP) is granted by the county and includes conditions. |
WHAT IS A LICENSE? Depending on size and other factors, dog breeders and brokers may also require a state or federal license.
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