Section 10-613 - Sale of puppy or kitten. - Maryland Statutes

§ 10-613. Sale of puppy or kitten.
 

(a)  Scope of section.- This section does not apply to: 

(1) a biomedical facility that is licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture; or 

(2) an animal that is accompanied by a signed statement from a licensed veterinarian stating that the animal's dam is incapacitated for humane or medical reasons and cannot care for the animal. 

(b)  Prohibited.-  

(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, a person may not sell or distribute in the State or bring into the State for the purpose of sale or distribution a domestic dog or cat less than 8 weeks of age unless accompanied by its dam. 

(2) A person may give an unaccompanied dog or cat to: 

(i) an animal shelter or pound that is operated or supported by a government; or 

(ii) a humane society. 

(c)  Penalty.-  

(1) A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $500. 

(2) For purposes of humane disposal, a court may seize an animal brought into this State in violation of this section. 
 

[An. Code 1957, art. 27, § 60B; 2002, ch. 26, § 2.]