Animal-welfare group expands lawsuit over puppy laundering, USDA enforcement

By: Clark Kauffman

Outlets: Iowa Capital Dispatch

Published: September 2, 2026

Words: 889

Last Updated: 1 month, 2 weeks ago

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An animal-welfare organization that is suing the federal government over an alleged failure to enforce regulations against dog breeders in Iowa and elsewhere is now seeking to expand its lawsuit.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals filed its original lawsuit against the U.S. Department of Agriculture in September 2024, challenging the USDA’s decision to license three Iowa dog breeders — Steve Kruse, Brian Lichirie and Wuanita Swedlund.

The lawsuit, filed in …

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