SB17 Summary

• Establishes the Alabama Dog and Cat Breeders Commission to license and regulate dog and cat breeders who possess 11 or more adult intact female animals and sell 20 or more animals annually.

• Creates a 9-member commission appointed by the Department of Agriculture and Industries commissioner, including licensed breeders, veterinarians, animal welfare representatives, public members, and an animal control officer.

• Requires licensed breeders to comply with minimum standards for animal care including housing, exercise (at least one hour daily), veterinary examinations, grooming, and record-keeping; prohibits selling animals before eight weeks of age.

• Authorizes the commission to conduct inspections at least every 18 months, deny or revoke licenses for violations or animal cruelty convictions, and impose civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation.

• Establishes the Alabama Dog and Cat Breeders Commission Fund in the State Treasury, funded by licensing fees and administrative penalties, to be used solely for administering and enforcing the act.