California is one of the leading states in enacting new regulations for pet owners. Several states have implemented stricter laws that increase fines, restrict the sale of pets, and require businesses to provide information about their pets. The San Diego Humane Society stated that the new laws are the result of lobbying efforts by a coalition of advocacy groups. The new regulations, which will punish owners who fail to properly care for their pets with fines and even jail time, are set to take effect in 2026.
Among the new regulations are a ban on feeding pets in the yard, which can carry jail time
According to official information, new animal welfare laws designed to protect pets and strengthen veterinary care statewide go into effect this month. Among the new regulations are a ban on feeding pets in the yard, which can carry jail time, and a ban on procedures for cats that veterinarians consider excessive. For example, regarding cats, supporters of Assembly Bill 867, authored by Assemblyman Alex Lee, have argued that declawing is inhumane because it involves amputating bone. This is despite the fact that cats and stray animals naturally wear down their claws through daily exposure to the elements.
The new regulations prohibit declawing unless medically necessary
For this reason, it’s important to understand that one of the main campaigns in California is against cat declawing, which involves amputating one of a cat’s toes. This practice is considered atrocious. The new regulations prohibit declawing unless medically necessary, and veterinarians who continue to perform it may face fines or even lose their license. It’s important to understand that these regulations stem from the large number of cases that continue to occur involving this practice. Eradicating this activity is solely for the purpose of protecting the animals, who cannot defend themselves or speak for themselves. In many cases, it’s argued that animals can suffer chronic pain after having a part of their body amputated.
“Declawing isn’t a nail trim, it’s a painful amputation that has no place in a compassionate society” – Gary Weitzman
Regarding this legislation, Dr. Marilyn Kroplick, president of In Defense of Animals, said: “Declawing isn’t a nail trim, it’s a painful amputation that has no place in a compassionate society.” Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of the SDHS, stated: “These legislative victories reflect the SDHS’s overall commitment to promoting humane, equitable, and sustainable solutions for animals and those who love them.” With this, California now joins New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island with a statewide declaw ban.
The biggest concern is the health and well-being of animals
On the other hand, there’s the illicit business behind the buying and selling of pets. In this regard, Assembly Bill 519, titled “Closing The Pet Broker Loophole,” authored by Assemblyman Marc Berman, a Democrat from Palo Alto, prohibits pet brokers in California, or any entity that profits from the sale of animals bred by third parties, from doing business in the state. The biggest concern is the health and well-being of animals that, on a whim, can end up in the wrong hands. “By eliminating exploitative puppy mills and expanding access to veterinary care, we are addressing two of the most pressing animal welfare challenges today,” Gary Weitzman emphasized.
In this regard, the Puppy Import Transparency Act, SB 312, requires dog importers to electronically submit health certificates to the California Department of Food and Agriculture within 10 days of shipment. Another important point is licensing. In Pennsylvania, for example, the state requires owners to renew their dogs’ licenses or risk a $500 fine. Therefore, it is important for pet owners to stay informed through official channels about regulatory updates, as this can help them avoid penalties for minor oversights or mistakes.