Bill > H893

This bill amends Massachusetts law to regulate the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet shops by requiring that these animals can only be sourced from public animal shelters, animal control agencies, societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals, humane society shelters, or rescue groups. Pet shops must maintain detailed records documenting the source of each animal for at least one year and must display a sign on each animal's cage that identifies the specific shelter or rescue group from which the animal originated. Public animal pounds and shelters are granted the right to periodically review these records. Any pet shop operator who violates these provisions will be subject to a civil penalty of $500, with each animal sold in violation considered a separate offense. The primary intent of this legislation appears to be promoting animal adoption from shelters and rescue organizations, discouraging the sale of animals from commercial breeding facilities, and increasing transparency in the pet sales process.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H893