Governor Signs Law to Strengthen Care at Pet Shops

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is drawing attention to a new law that attempts to toughen standards for Connecticut pet shops.

The legislation, which takes effect on Oct. 1, prohibits pet shops from buying or selling cats and dogs from breeders who have violated the U.S. Department of Agriculture's animal welfare regulations. It also requires pet shop license-holders to post certain USDA inspection reports for breeders of any dog offered for sale.

The new law also requires the state's Department of Agriculture to develop a standard of care for Connecticut dog and cat breeders. Additionally, the agriculture commissioner will be allowed to fine pet shop license-holders directly.

“There is evidence that puppy mills around the country have employed practices that any reasonable person would consider inhumane,” Malloy said in a statement. “By signing this bill into law, we are setting standards in Connecticut to ensure that animals are living in humane conditions. I would like to thank the chairs of the Taskforce on the Sale of Cats and Dogs from Inhumane Origins at Connecticut Pet Shops and all of those who provided constructive input to make this bill a reality.”

Malloy held a ceremonial bill-signing Wednesday at the Greenwich Animal Shelter.
   

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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