Pennsylvania has a network of laws that work together to protect puppies and consumers.
Act 225 of 1982 is Pennsylvania’s Dog Law, the primary state law regulating dogs, kennels, breeders, dealers, and licensing.
The most recent updates came through Senate Bill 746, signed into law by Governor Shapiro on October 23, 2023, as Act 18 of 2023.
Following feedback after the passage of Act 18, the General Assembly passed Senate Bill 82, which Governor Shapiro signed into law on July 8, 2024, as Act 47 of 2024.
(PA Act 10 of 2017)
______________
Background
➡︎Named after Libre, a Boston Terrier puppy rescued from extreme neglect in Lancaster County in 2016. His survival sparked widespread outrage and led to bipartisan legislative action.
➡︎Signed into law by Governor Tom Wolf on June 28, 2017.
Key Provisions
Felony Animal Cruelty:
➡︎For the first time in PA, aggravated cruelty (torturing, maiming, or killing an animal) can be charged as a felony of the third degree.
➡︎Neglect and cruelty are clearly defined in a tiered system of offenses.
➡︎Prior to Libre’s Law, even severe cruelty was often only a misdemeanor.
Tethering & Shelter Standards:
➡︎Dogs cannot be tethered for more than 30 minutes in temperatures above 90*F or below 32*F.
➡︎Tether must be at least 10 feet long and allow movement.
➡︎Dogs must have access to sanitary shelter, drinkable water and necessary veterinary care.
Law Enforcement Powers:
➡︎Humane officers and police gained clearer authority to seize animals in cases of cruelty or neglect.
➡︎Courts may order forfeiture of animals and prohibit future ownership by offenders.
(Introduced multiple times but not yet passed as of 2026)
______________
Background
➡︎Victoria was a German Shepherd who was rescued from a Pennsylvania puppy mill after 10 years of breeding. She became completely paralyzed as a result of a genetic, neurological disorder called Degenerative Myelopathy, often compared to ALS. This disease can be passed down to puppies.
Summary
➡︎Victoria’s Law seeks to ban the retail sale of commercially bred animals in pet stores, require breeder transparency, protect consumers and animals, and push Pennsylvania away from its reputation as a “puppy mill state.”
(Enacted law 1997)
______________
Background
➡︎ Pennsylvania was one of the firsts to enact this law. More than 20 other states have since followed.
Key Provisions
➡︎Protects consumers from purchasing unhealthy or genetically compromised puppies from pet stores or breeders.
➡︎Balances consumer rights with breeder obligations by requiring disclosure and offering remedies if the puppy is found to be ill or misrepresented.
➡︎This is why it is vitally important to research and visit the breeder before purchasing a puppy.