OH HB226

Requires pet dealers selling 10 or more dogs or cats annually to obtain a license from the Ohio Director of Agriculture, with fees of $25 for dealers selling 24 or fewer animals and $100 for dealers selling 25 or more animals annually.

Establishes comprehensive animal care standards including proper enclosure construction, adequate space for movement, proper ventilation, temperature control, nutritious food service twice daily, fresh water access, and regular veterinary care including vaccinations.

Mandates veterinary examination of animals within five business days of receipt before sale, with required testing appropriate to age and breed, and humane euthanasia for animals with serious medical conditions.

Requires pet dealers to maintain detailed records for two years on all housed animals including acquisition source, animal description, identification numbers, veterinary care, and sale information; allows inspection by the Director or authorized representatives at least annually.

Establishes penalties including suspension or revocation of licenses for violations, civil penalties ranging from double the license fee for operating without a license to amounts set by rule for other violations, and preempts local jurisdictions from enacting more stringent pet dealer licensing or animal care standards.