AFV carries out multiple pet store sweeps

On Feb. 4, Animal Friends of the Valleys Animal Control officers staged and carried out multiple pet store sweeps enforcing AB 485 that went into effect on Jan. 1.

FV officers issued more than 60 citations for various violations, including selling puppies not in compliance with California’s Health and Safety Code.

AB 485 prohibits retailers from selling live dogs, cats or rabbits unless the animal was obtained from a public animal control agency or shelter, humane society group, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter or a rescue group that’s in a cooperative agreement with at least one private or public shelter.

California is the first state to pass such legislation.

AFV said its officers will continue to inspect these stores for violations on a regular basis.