Bill > SB122

This bill aims to regulate the sale of dogs and cats by retail pet shops in Kentucky by establishing new restrictions and definitions. The bill defines key terms such as "animal shelter" (referencing an existing legal definition), "commercial sale", "hobby breeder" (defined as owning no more than three breeding female dogs or cats), "large-scale breeding kennel" (a USDA-licensed facility breeding animals for commercial sale), and "qualified breeder" (a hobby breeder or large-scale kennel with no recent USDA inspection violations). Under the proposed law, retail pet shops would be prohibited from selling dogs or cats unless the animals come from an animal shelter or a qualified breeder, and they cannot sell animals that are less than eight weeks old or to individuals under eighteen years of age. The bill also prevents local governments from creating ordinances that would interfere with these regulations. Additionally, the bill establishes a penalty for violations, with retail pet shop owners facing a civil penalty of $500 for each animal sold in violation of the new rules. This legislation appears designed to promote responsible pet breeding and sales practices, protect animal welfare, and ensure that pets are sold through reputable sources.