Issues at the City, County, and Metropolitan Levels, and in US Territories
Florida – The following cities have introduced or enacted retail pet store ordinances, aimed at reducing the definition of hobby breeders to reduce contribution of hobby breeders to retail pet stores. These ordinances are a part of a large, coordinated effort in South Florida:
Coconut Creek, FL – The ordinance was heard the first time, and they have agreed to work with AKC staff on an amended ordinance and will hear an amended ordinance on June 11th.
Palm Beach County, FL – Palm Beach County Government is introducing a comprehensive animal care ordinance that has far reaching impacts for breeders. Among the 75 pages of changes, highlights include expanding the definition of commercial breeder to anyone who breeds or sells more than one litter in a year, and require monthly reporting. The ordinance would also prohibit maintaining unsterilized dogs over six months of age or unsterilized cats over four months of age together without first obtaining an appropriate breeding permit from the County. This ordinance is up for first reading on June 16th.