Notice is hereby given in accordance with § 2.2-4007.01 of the Code of Virginia that the Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services intends to consider promulgating 2VAC5-105, Regulations for the Inspection of Pet Shops Selling Dogs or Cats. Chapter 1284 of the 2020 Acts of Assembly requires the Board of Agriculture and Consumer Services to adopt a regulation governing the keeping of dogs and cats by a pet shop. The purpose of this action is to fulfill that requirement, including adopting the specific provisions stipulated by statute. The provisions are (i) registration of a regulated person or facility with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services; (ii) standards of adequate care, exercise, feed, shelter, space, treatment, water, proper cleaning, and lighting; (iii) at least one unannounced inspection by the State Animal Welfare Inspector occurring annually; and (iv) remedies for each finding in a given inspection.

The agency intends to hold a public hearing on the proposed action after publication in the Virginia Register.

Statutory Authority: § 3.2-6501.1 of the Code of Virginia.

Public Comment Deadline: May 12, 2021.

Agency Contact: Dr. Carolynn Bissett, Program Manager, Office of Veterinary Services, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, P.O. Box 1163, Richmond, VA 23218, telephone (804) 786-2483, FAX (804) 371-2380, TDD (800) 828-1120, or email carolynn.bissett@vdacs.virginia.gov.