Connecticut Governor Signs Puppy Mill Legislation

Connecticut Governor Dannel P. Malloy was joined by state legislators and puppy mill advocates for the signing of Public Act 14-77: An Act Concerning Certain Recommendations of the Task Force on the Sale of Cats and Dogs from Inhumane Origins at Connecticut Pet Shops.

The new state law will  increase standards for Connecticut retail pet shops and breeders.  Here is an overview of what the bill does:

• Require pet shops to reimburse customers for veterinarian expenses incurred to treat a dog or cat that becomes ill shortly after purchase from the shop (this now will cover the purchase price of the animal and veterinary costs).
• Prohibit pet shop licensees from purchasing dogs or cats from a breeder who has violated U.S. Department of Agriculture animal welfare regulations in the past two years.
• Require the state Commissioner of Agriculture to develop a standard of care applicable to in-state dog and cat breeders by Dec. 31, 2014.
• Require pet shops to post the U.S. Department of Agriculture inspection reports for breeders of any dog offered for sale.

To view of the complete legislation, click here.

“There is evidence that puppy mills around the country have employed practices that any reasonable person would consider inhumane,” Malloy said while signing the legislation at a ceremony at the Greenwich Animal Shelter.

“By signing this bill into law, we are setting standards in Connecticut to ensure that animals are living in humane conditions,” Malloy said.