Rep. James Gallagher Introduces Dunkin’s Law After 117 Dead Dogs Found
FORTUNA, Calif. Northern California Congressman James Gallagher introduced federal legislation on October 26, 2026, to amend the Animal Welfare Act following the discovery of 117 dead dogs at a Humboldt County animal sanctuary.
The proposal, called Dunkin’s Law, would expand legal remedies for pet owners whose animals suffer harm in commercial care.
The legislation follows an ongoing investigation by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office into Miranda’s Rescue Animal Sanctuary near Fortuna. Investigators recovered 117 intact canine remains from burial sites on the property.
According to KCRA, preliminary examinations of 70 dogs revealed evidence of gunshots in many of the animals.
At least two of the deceased dogs had previously been transferred to the facility from Stockton Animal Services. The sheriff’s investigation remains ongoing, and the discovery of the remains does not establish criminal liability.
What Dunkin’s Law Would Change
Dunkin’s Law takes its name from a dog that died while staying at a commercial boarding facility. The proposed legislation seeks to change how federal law treats companion animals and strengthen the legal options available when pets are harmed.
According to The Times-Standard, Gallagher introduced the measure in response to concerns about animal welfare and accountability following the Miranda’s Rescue investigation.
The bill would amend the federal Animal Welfare Act to recognise dogs and cats as sentient beings rather than treating them solely as personal property.
If enacted, the legislation would create a federal civil cause of action allowing owners to sue covered commercial pet-care businesses, including boarding kennels and grooming facilities, for harm, neglect or death.
Owners could seek economic and non-economic damages, including veterinary expenses, emotional distress compensation, reasonable legal fees and court costs.
The proposal would also establish a civil accountability route involving shelters and rescue organisations convicted of unlawfully euthanising companion animals under applicable state or local laws.
California Has Already Adopted Separate Animal Protection Measures
The federal proposal comes alongside animal protection legislation already enacted in California.
According to the Animal Legal Defense Fund, two state measures took effect on January 1, 2026. Assembly Bill 519 restricts third-party commercial pet brokers, while Senate Bill 312 requires commercial dog importers to submit veterinary health certificates electronically to the California Department of Food and Agriculture within 10 days of shipment.
Those California requirements are separate from Gallagher’s proposed federal legislation.
Dunkin’s Law has not been enacted. Its proposed civil remedies would require congressional approval before becoming federal law.
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