France fines pet shops selling dogs and cats to curb impulse buys

France has established penalties for pet shops that continue to sell dogs and cats, a practice banned since 2024. The Ministry of Agriculture announced that fines can reach 1,500 euros per animal for illegal sales and 750 euros for displaying live animals in shop windows, regardless of species.

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These measures aim to limit the phenomenon of 'impulse buys' by purchasers who have not sufficiently considered the responsibility that comes with buying a pet, risking not being able to provide for its needs and well-being.

These regulations aim to discourage "impulse buys" of pets, where buyers may not be fully prepared for the responsibilities of pet ownership. The ministry stated the goal is to ensure owners can meet the needs and well-being of their companion animals.

The decree clarifies sanctions for violations of a 2021 law that banned the sale of dogs and cats in pet shops starting in 2024. Previously, specific penalties were not defined, leading some establishments to circumvent the ban. Reports indicated that some pet shops kept animals out of sight in basements or back rooms, selling them directly or online via "click and collect" services or through online marketplaces.

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in case of sale of a dog or cat in (their) establishment, a fifth-class contravention, which can reach 1,500 euros per animal (and 3,000 euros in case of recidivism)

This move aligns with broader efforts to combat animal cruelty. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu recently urged government members to intensify the fight against animal mistreatment, setting an October deadline for action. These decisions were prompted by meetings with animal welfare associations advocating for the full implementation of the 2021 law.

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in case of presentation of animals visible from a public highway, whatever the species, a fourth-class contravention, which can reach 750 euros per animal