Andy D Yoder – Utica, MN

During inspection, shortly after I started the inspection at 2:28 PM, the temperature in the kennel was approximately 91 degrees Fahrenheit. Upon my encouragement, the licensee opened windows, opened doors, and set up a fan. The temperature dropped very little during the inspection. Prior to my departure, the temperature in the kennel was 88 degrees Fahrenheit which was recorded at 6:31 PM. The temperature stayed above 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the kennel during the entire inspection. When I measured the temperature at 6:31 PM, I observed 21 puppies in four enclosures to be sprawled out and scattered throughout all 4 enclosures. They were not huddled up close to each other the way a litter of puppies would normally be observed. This behavior indicates the puppies were too hot and uncomfortable. The licensee must ensure the kennel temperature does not rise above 85 degrees Fahrenheit when dogs are present. If there is any indication the temperature could stay above 85 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period of time, the licensee should take steps to lower the temperature. Correct starting on 4/13/23.

14 adult dogs were overdue on their distemper and parvo shots from a few days to a few months. Not having all adult dogs up to date on their distemper and parvo shots doesn't ensure they are adequately protected against distemper and parvo. All adult dogs must be kept up to date on their distemper and parvo vaccines. Correct by 4/20/23.

The licensee has a contingency plan started, but it hasn't been completed. It specifically does not identify the different types of emergencies that could trigger the need for emergency action to be taken. Not having a completed contingency plan doesn't help prepare the licensee for if and when an emergency situation may take place. The licensee must complete a contingency plan in accordance with the requirements outlined in the Animal Welfare Act. Correct by 9/22/23.

At the start of the inspection at 3:30 PM, the temperature in the kennel was approximately 89 degrees Fahrenheit. Upon my encouragement the licensee set up a fan. The temperature did not drop during the inspection. It topped off at 92 degrees about half way through the inspection and was 89 degrees at 7:40 PM. The temperature stayed above 85 degrees Fahrenheit in the kennel during the entire inspection. When I measured the temperature at 7:40 PM, I observed 4 puppies in one enclosure to be sprawled out and scattered throughout the enclosure. They were not huddled up close to each other the way a litter of puppies would normally be observed. This behavior indicates the puppies were too hot and uncomfortable. The licensee must ensure the kennel temperature does not rise above and stay above 85 degrees Fahrenheit for four consecutive hours when dogs are present. If there is any indication the temperature could stay above 85 degrees Fahrenheit for an extended period of time, the licensee should take steps to lower the temperature. Correct starting on 8/22/23.

The licensee has not been testing (sampling) his adult population for heartworm or fecal parasites. Not sampling the adult dogs for parasites doesn't ensure the dogs are adequately protected from various diseases and parasites. All adults dogs must be sampled for heartworm and fecal parasites in accordance with a plan from their Attending Veterinarian. Correct by 9/22/23.