Yesterday, the Colorado House of Representatives passed a bill regulating the sale and transfer of dogs on public property. The bill contains amendments requested by the Colorado Federation of Dog Clubs (CFDC) to ensure no unintended consequences for those competing in events.
The bill as amended now goes to the Senate for further consideration.
Summary:
House Bill 25-1180 as introduced sought to ban the sale or transfer of a dog on any public property, including parking lots, recreation areas or any public space.
While the goal is to stop the roadside sale of dogs, AKC and CFDC were concerned about the broad language in the bill. The sponsor agreed to an amendment drafted by CFDC to exempt “a pet owner, breeder, handler, or trainer while transporting a dog to or from or exhibiting or competing at an event licensed, regulated or sanctioned…” by the AKC or any other nationally recognized registering organization.
A further amendment was added on the House floor to exempt “hunting dogs bred or trained for lawful hunting.”
In addition, discussions and public statements have been made by the Colorado Pet Animal Care and Facilities Act program, which will oversee enforcement, that ensure this bill will not impact previously-arranged sales or transfers taking place on a public site (for example, a breeder and new owner who previously met regarding the sale of a dog could arrange a convenient meeting place to transfer the dog).
AKC greatly appreciates the Colorado Federation of Dog Club’s efforts to amend the bill to address questions and concerns while helping the sponsor address her goal. More information will be provided on the bill as it continues to advance.
For questions, contact AKC Government Relations at doglaw@akc.org or Colorado Federation of Dog Clubs at kharahs@yahoo.com.