This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish minimum care standards for commercial dog breeders and defines the conditions under which a dog is considered unfit for sale. It introduces new definitions such as "clinically ill," "nonelective surgical procedure," and "unfit for sale." The bill also increases the annual permit fees for Class I and Class II breeders, raising them from $250 to $350 and from $500 to $750, respectively. Breeders are required to provide written disclosures to purchasers regarding the health and history of the dogs, including any known diseases or conditions, and must adhere to specific humane treatment and housing requirements.

Furthermore, the bill outlines remedies for purchasers if a dog is deemed unfit for sale, allowing for refunds, exchanges, or reimbursement for veterinary fees under certain conditions. It mandates that purchasers notify breeders of any health issues within a specified timeframe and provides guidelines for resolving disputes. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining accurate health records and compliance with state animal care laws, with penalties for violations including increased fines and potential misdemeanor charges. Additionally, it reinforces consumer rights by ensuring that any agreements contradicting the established standards are deemed void and unenforceable, ultimately promoting responsible breeding practices and improving the welfare of dogs sold by breeders.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 19-20-26, 19-20-27