Daniel Gingerich, Animal Welfare Act Violations, Iowa 2023

In a shocking revelation, a federal court has issued a temporary restraining order against Daniel Gingerich, a USDA-licensed dog breeder in Iowa, for placing the health of hundreds of dogs in ‘serious danger’.

According to a complaint filed by the U.S. government, Gingerich has been violating the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) by failing to provide adequate veterinary care, nutritious food, and potable water to the dogs in his care. The complaint also alleges that Gingerich has been evading federal oversight by denying U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspectors access to his breeding locations and hiding dogs from inspection.

On one occasion, USDA inspectors discovered hidden in a horse barn a number of live dogs running around two dead dogs. The dogs at Gingerich’s facilities were also being fed moldy and contaminated food and lacked access to potable water. In addition, multiple litters of puppies were not being properly vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus, resulting in multiple disease outbreaks.

The court, presided over by U.S. District Court Judge Stephanie M. Rose, has ordered Gingerich to identify all locations of dogs intended for breeding or sale, have a licensed veterinarian complete a physical examination ‘from head to tail’ of every dog, and timely provide the veterinary records of those examinations and any other veterinary care to the government. Gingerich has also been ordered to immediately cease breeding, euthanizing, or disposing of any dogs without the consent of the government or a court order.

The government alleges that Gingerich has amassed at least 100 violations of the Animal Welfare Act at approved and unapproved facilities in Iowa in the last six months alone. During one recent inspection, USDA inspectors observed a severely emaciated golden retriever, several dogs with untreated and painful eye conditions, and a non-responsive puppy that died moments later.

Daniel Gingerich, the defendant, has been licensed as a dog breeder since October 2019. The exact criminal charges against him are violations of the Animal Welfare Act. The incident occurred on September 28, 2023, in Iowa. The current status of the case is under investigation.

This case highlights the importance of enforcing animal welfare laws and holding breeders accountable for their actions. The government’s action demonstrates its commitment to protecting animals from abuse and neglect.

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