Massachusetts House Bill H747

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/16/23
• Refer: 2/16/23

Caption

Relative to the sale of dogs and cats in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Impact

The bill fundamentally shifts the framework of pet sales within the Commonwealth, enhancing animal welfare by ensuring that the animals sold in pet shops come from reputable sources. By limiting sales to shelters and rescue groups, the legislation aims to decrease the instances of puppy mills and irresponsible breeding, promoting a more humane approach to pet ownership. Pet shops will also be responsible for maintaining detailed records of the sourcing of their animals, fostering transparency in the adoption and sale process.

Summary

House Bill 747 seeks to regulate the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet shops throughout Massachusetts. The legislation mandates that pet shops may only sell these live animals if they are sourced from publicly owned animal pounds, public animal control agencies, humane societies, or rescue groups that have cooperative agreements with such shelters. This approach is aimed at reducing the sale of animals from undesirable breeding practices and encourages pet adoption from shelters instead.

Contention

Several points of contention surround the bill, particularly regarding the economic implications for pet shops that may rely on breeding for sales. Critics may argue that such restrictions could negatively impact small businesses and the autonomy of pet shop operators. However, proponents emphasize the moral obligation to prioritize animal welfare and combat the problems arising from commercial breeding tactics. The civil penalties for non-compliance amounting to $500 per violation further indicate a strong intent to enforce compliance with these new regulations.