A Georgia lawmaker is making a move to curb a troubling practice: the sale of animals in parking lots, roadsides, and flea markets by unlicensed breeders. The bill, spearheaded by Rep. Beth Camp, aims to protect consumers and reduce the number of abandoned pets overwhelming the state’s shelters.
Tightening the Leash on Unlicensed Breeders
The proposal has already gained traction, clearing the House Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Committee with just one dissenting vote. However, the real test lies ahead—securing approval from the full House before March 6, known as Crossover Day. Without that, its chances of advancing this year could be slim.
If passed, the law would prohibit selling animals in outdoor locations like parking lots, sidewalks, and flea markets. These spots are common hubs for unlicensed breeders who focus on profit over the welfare of the animals. Instead, sales would be restricted to controlled environments such as private homes, veterinary offices, or designated locations like police stations.
A Growing Problem for Shelters
Animal shelters in Georgia are already dealing with record numbers of abandoned pets. Camp sees the bill as a way to reduce this burden.
“There’s no consumer recourse if you buy an animal from someone you don’t know, in a place with no traceability,” Camp said. “This bill protects both consumers and the animals who often end up in shelters when they aren’t what the buyer expected.”
Shelter overcrowding has become an escalating issue. Some facilities are reporting intakes far beyond capacity, forcing difficult decisions about euthanasia and animal care. Stricter rules on pet sales could cut down on impulse purchases that lead to later abandonment.
The Penalty for Violations
The bill proposes escalating fines for violators:
- $100 for a first offense
- $250 for a second offense
- $500 for the third and subsequent offenses
Each illegally sold animal would be considered a separate violation. Selling multiple animals in a single day could quickly result in steep penalties.
Supporters Say the Bill Targets More Than Just Pet Sales
Advocates argue that parking lot pet sales are often tied to larger criminal activities. Many unlicensed breeders already violate existing regulations, which require a state license for selling more than one litter of puppies or 30 adult dogs in a year. Cutting off their primary sales channels would make it harder for them to operate under the radar.
The bill has drawn support from animal welfare groups, veterinarians, and local officials who see it as a step toward more responsible pet ownership. The next hurdle? A full House vote before the crucial March 6 deadline.
