New Maine Law Affects Pet Sales
Oct 2007
By Lisa Jung
Maine’s animal welfare laws enacted by the last session of the Maine Legislature will take effect September 21 (the proposed changes were summarized in the May through July 2007 editions of Downeast Dog News). A couple of the changes are especially important. For instance, under the new law, a vendor’s license is now required for anyone advertising, selling or exchanging for value more than one dog or cat in a 12-month period.
The vendor license is a new category created by the amendment as an addition to the existing licensing categories. Those who possess a valid animal shelter, kennel, breeding kennel or pet shop license are not affected by this change, as long as they maintain and/or renew their current license.
The vendor license is available from the Animal Welfare Program (AWP) after completion of the required application and payment of a $25 application fee. Each license will be valid for 60 days from the date it was issued. The license number must be included in any form of advertising, including any brochure or sign that announces the availability of a dog or cat for sale. The vendor’s name and license number must also be given to anyone purchasing or otherwise receiving a dog or cat from the vendor.
A violation of this new law constitutes a civil violation for which a fine of at least $50, but not more than $200, may be imposed.
For more information about Maine animal welfare laws and all amendments to these laws and rules or to obtain an application for the new vendor’s license from the Animal Welfare Program, call 287-3846 or go online to www.maine.gov/agriculture/aw/downloads.html. As soon as it is available, AWP will post a new Animal Welfare Law Book in pdf format on its website to replace the existing 2006 edition.