HB1711 Summary

• Pet shop operators may only offer dogs and cats for sale if obtained from in-state or out-of-state animal control facilities or animal shelters that comply with sourcing restrictions prohibiting acquisition from breeders or auctions.

• Pet shop operators must maintain records for 2 years documenting the source of each dog and cat, including the facility name, address, phone number, and compliance documentation, with records submitted to the Department on May 1 and November 1 annually.

• All dogs and cats sold by pet shops must be microchipped prior to sale and pet shops must provide written disclosures to customers including breed, age, medical history, sourcing information, and the pet shop's license number.

• Customers have remedies including full refund, exchange, or veterinary reimbursement (up to purchase price) if a licensed veterinarian certifies within 21 days that an animal was unfit due to illness or disease, or within one year for congenital or hereditary conditions requiring hospitalization or surgery.

• Administrative fines are mandatory (not discretionary) for violations: $500 for first violation, $1,000 for second violation within 3 years, and $2,500 plus probationary status for third violation within 3 years; the law takes effect 180 days after enactment.