The U.S. Department of Agriculture is asking a federal court to dismiss a lawsuit challenging the agency’s licensing and enforcement practices involving several Iowa dog breeders.
The lawsuit was filed by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or ASPCA, in September 2024. It challenges the USDA’s past licensing decisions involving Iowa breeders Steve Kruse, Brian Lichirie and Wuanita Swedlund.
The ASPCA alleges the agency failed to adequately enforce the federal Animal Welfare Act and claims dogs associated with Kruse were transferred through other breeders to conceal his role in supplying puppies to out-of-state retailers. These allegations are part of ongoing litigation and have not been established as court findings.
In recent court filings, the USDA argued that enforcement decisions under the Animal Welfare Act are discretionary rather than mandatory. The agency also disputes the ASPCA’s claim that an informal policy of non-enforcement exists.
The USDA further argues the lawsuit should be dismissed because Kruse, Lichirie and Swedlund no longer hold active licenses, while another breeder named in the case, Christine Snakenberg, meets the agency’s licensing requirements. The ASPCA disputes that position, citing Snakenberg’s license approval at the same West Point address associated with Kruse’s Stonehenge Kennels as evidence that its concerns remain unresolved.
The court has not yet resolved the lawsuit.
The legal dispute comes as U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announced expanded enforcement efforts involving dog breeders during an October 6 appearance at the Animal Rescue League of Iowa. Rollins said the USDA was increasing inspections and penalties and working to shut down puppy mills.
Separately, Swedlund faces 34 criminal counts of animal neglect in Van Buren County. She has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and her trial is scheduled for December 18, 2026.
According to previously reported USDA inspection records, six puppies appeared to have frozen to death at a Cantril-area breeding facility in late 2023. The property was owned by Kruse, while the business operated under Swedlund’s license.
In June 2026, the U.S. Department of Justice obtained a temporary restraining order against Swedlund. A subsequent inspection documented 20 violations, and the Van Buren County sheriff later seized 32 dogs from her operation.
The lawsuit raises questions about the USDA’s authority and responsibilities in enforcing federal animal-welfare requirements. Further developments will depend on the court’s consideration of the parties’ arguments.
