Dog laws in pa. Selling, bartering or trading dogs.

Dog laws in pa Josh Shapiro’s administration recently reworked Pennsylvania’s Dog Law to add new restrictions for dog licenses, kennel fees and more. Reimbursement for damages; complaints. Under Pennsylvania law, cruelty to animals includes: Neglect of animal, including failure to provide: Welcome to the new PA General Assembly website. Harrisburg, PA – Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding reminded Pennsylvania dog owners to purchase a 2025 license from their county treasurer by January 1, 2025. During the early 1970's, dogs were trained to retrieve items for people with mobility impairments (wheelchair users). Whether you're considering adding a furry friend to your family or one is already your furever friend, the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement aims to protect the pups of Pennsylvania and their humans. Jun 6, 2024 · By understanding dog waste disposal laws in Pennsylvania, dog owners can be responsible pet stewards. agriculture. gov" at the end of the address. Finally, § 459-201 of the Dog Law mandates that every owner of a dog in the state of Pennsylvania must, on or before May 20, 2024 · Pennsylvania Gov. Chapter 7A of Title 3 (not part of the Dog Law) requires that every person in Pennsylvania, who owns a dog or cat over three months of age, must have the dog or cat vaccinated against rabies. C. Section 603. The new law includes improvements to tethering conditions for outside dogs, adds protection for horses, increases penalties for animal abuse, requires convicted abusers to forfeit animals The Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement is charged with protecting Pennsylvania’s puppies and dogs, protecting consumers, and protecting our communities from dangerous and stray animals. § 5533. Click here if you wish to access our legacy website. Jan 23, 2024 · Harrisburg, Pa. In Pennsylvania, there is a Dog Law Enforcement Office. May 10, 2017 · While Pennsylvania does not have specific rules regarding keeping your dog on a leash, PA Code §459-305 states that a dog must be confined to its owner’s premises and must be secured to the property, such as with a collar and chain, in a way that it cannot stray, alternatively, it would be best if you controlled your dog adequately. EIN 84-3459925 PA Kennel License # 17356. Jan 1, 2022 · (a) Summary offense of harboring a dangerous dog. Payments of claims out of Dog Law Restricted Account; rights against dog owners inuring Center Resources Research Publications: What Is A Dangerous Dog?: A Look at the Pennsylvania Dangerous Dog Laws and the Controversy Surrounding Breed Specific Legislation (Apr. This office is tasked with enforcing the state’s laws that apply to canines. 2010) Pennsylvania Dog Law: Taking a Bite Out of Puppy Mill Crime (Apr. 70 on February 1, 2024 for all dogs. — Pennsylvania's new dog law updates go into effect this week, and with it, fees and kennel standards are increasing. ), trained in accordance with section 2143(d) of the Animal Welfare Act, who work in a federally registered research facility Starting a dog-related business in Pennsylvania isn’t just about playtime and wagging tails. Payments of claims out of Dog Law Restricted Account; rights against dog owners inuring to Our dog wardens work hard every day to serve as the eyes and ears for the dogs of Pennsylvania. ). They work to find shelter for strays or return them to their families, investigate dog bites and provide justice for victims of dangerous dogs, and connect dogs in kennels with humane justice. The significant features of the law include a statewide control requirement for dogs (Section 305) and provisions for "dangerous dogs" (Section 501 et. “Running at large” is defined as being off the premises and not under direct control, such as by a leash or within a secure enclosure. 3)Chapter 7A. 2) to the police or an animal control officer employed by or under contract with the city and to the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement. The first "seizure alert" dog was introduced in the late Dogs used for law enforcement. 1. Pennsylvania's Dangerous Dog Law Act 46 of 1990 is known as the "Dangerous Dog Law. § 455. Licenses purchased between December 1, 2023 and January 31, 2024 will be available at the prior rate of mandatory rabies vaccinations for dogs. No. The Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement shall give notice of this determination to the respective city treasurer. All dogs must be licensed when you buy or adopt them (earliest is 8 weeks old) or 3 months of age, whichever comes first, by Jan. Links on Other Pages: Dog Purchaser Protection Act (73 P. You can also call the Allegheny County Dog Warden at (412) 418-2163. Guide dogs were introduced in the United States in the late 1920's. (WHTM) — On Monday, Oct. DOG LAW - OMNIBUS AMENDMENTS. Misdemeanor violations of the dog law cost up to $2,000 plus court costs. Dogs and cats 3 months of age or older are required to have a current rabies vaccination. Payments of claims out of Dog Law Restricted Account; rights against dog owners inuring to We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. According to the administration, this bill updates and changes Pennsylvania’s Dog Law… The owner or keeper shall notify the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, the State Dog Warden and the local police department within 24 hours if a dangerous dog is on the loose, is unconfined, has attacked another animal, has attacked a human being, has died or has been sold or donated. 7, 1982, P. In 2018, the state added a rescue and immunity provision for dogs and cats in "hot cars. The Pennsylvania state dog is a Great Dane. It is illegal to interfere with an officer or employee of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture engaged in enforcement of dog laws. 784, No. In August 2017, Governor Tom Wolf signed Libre’s Law, paving the way for Pennsylvania to be the most improved state in the country for animal protection. Oct 23, 2023 · The magisterial district judge shall make a report of the determination under section [502-A(a)] 502-A(a. Pennsylvania law categorizes animal cruelty under Title 18, Sections 5532-5534, distinguishing between neglect, abuse, and aggravated cruelty. The ADA does not restrict the type of dog breeds that can be service animals. gov. In an effort to ensure that consumers buying a dog in Pennsylvania know their pet has a clean bill of health, Pennsylvania’s dog sellers and breeders must post a visible notice that informs consumers of their rights under the state’s Dog Purchaser Protection Act, also known as the “Puppy Lemon Law”. 784, No. Section 701. --Any person who has been attacked by one or more dogs, or anyone on behalf of the person, a person whose domestic animal, dog or cat has been killed or injured without provocation, the State dog warden or the local police officer may file a complaint before a magisterial district judge, charging the owner or keeper of the a dog with harboring a mandatory rabies vaccinations for dogs. " It was enacted to provide greater protection to persons attacked by a "dangerous dog," and to provide for greater control by owners of dogs considered to be dangerous. Do not handle wildlife. 23, Governor Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 746 into law. Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement (“BDLE”). What do I do if I see a stray dog in my neighborhood? Call (724) 625-3157, and the Northern Regional Police Department will respond to capture the animal if possible. Summary: These statutes represent Pennsylvania's Dog Law, and contain provisions related to licensing, rabies quarantines, kennels, and the dangerous dog chapter. --A person commits an offense if the person intentionally, knowingly or recklessly illtreats, overloads, beats, abandons or abuses an animal. Statutes of Pennsylvania; Consolidated Statutes; View Consolidated Statute; Legislation Consolidated Statutes Unconsolidated Statutes Search Help. Kennels (1) Tethering a dog while actively engaged in lawful hunting, exhibition, performance events or field training. 1. § 459-502(b)(1) (2024). Who had input on these changes to the Dog Law? Members of the Pennsylvania Dog Law Advisory Board, trade organizations that represent kennels, rescue organizations, animal breeders, staff from the Department of Agriculture and members of the General Assembly met multiple times over several years and Oct 27, 2023 · This week, Governor Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 746 into law (Act No. Jan 1, 2024 · The state's new dog law includes changes to dog licenses, dog adoption information and isolation periods for dogs imported into Pennsylvania kennels. " DOG LAW Act of Dec. This program provides dog-related resources and regulations in the state of Pennsylvania. Selling, bartering or trading dogs. . 18 of 2023), which makes several changes to the Commonwealth’s Dog Law, including requirements for licensed kennels Agriculture’s Bureaur of Dog Law Enforcement was established in 1893. It covers a wide spectrum of issues, including licensing, rabies control, stray dog management, and the handling of dangerous dogs. --Except as provided in subsection (b), on or before January 1 of each year, the owner of any dog, three months of age or older, or upon transfer to a new owner, whichever comes first, except as hereinafter provided, shall apply to the county treasurer of his respective county or an agent under section 200(a), on a May 25, 2025 · Understanding the Foundation: The Pennsylvania Dog Law. Section 703. Where can I find information about the PA State Dog Laws? For State Dog laws, click on the link below: Feb 17, 2025 · Under Pennsylvania's limited version of this kind of law, any time a dog bites or attacks someone, the owner must pay for all of the victim's related medical treatment. 225 Cl. Applications for dog licenses; fees; penalties. Powered by: The [district justice] magisterial district judge shall make a report of the determination under section 502-A(a) to the police or an animal control officer employed by or under contract with the city and to the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement. Though most of the changes are now in effect, increases in dog license fees will not begin until Feb. Rabies Prevention and Control in Domestic Animals and Wildlife Act (3 P. Feb 15, 2024 · ©2024 Saving Shepherds Rescue. Title 3 Chapter 23 The Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement, through the work of State Dog Wardens, plays a critical role in rabies control in the Commonwealth by enforcing rabies vaccination requirements in dogs and domestic cats, picking up stray dogs, thus decreasing exposure of these dogs to rabid animals, and educating the public in general about rabies and the At this time, the online renewal option has closed, to renew your kennel license please contact the bureau at 717-787-3062. 2024-47 . Section 201. Section 702. S. Enacted from SB 746 on Monday Oct. Quarantines due to damages. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 1 of each year. Here are some ways to promote a cleaner environment: Educate Others: Talk to fellow dog owners about the importance of responsible pet waste disposal and the benefits of a clean community. A summary of Pennsylvania's animal cruelty laws The Pennsylvania SPCA enforces the animal cruelty laws of the Commonwealth in 23 counties. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania. SB 82 . Dog Caused Damages Section 701. Summary: This document contains Pennsylvania's anti-cruelty laws that were amended in 2017 and 2018. 03 AN ACT Relating to dogs, regulating the keeping of dogs; providing for the licensing of dogs and kennels; providing for the protection of dogs and the detention and destruction of dogs in certain cases; regulating the sale and Oct 25, 2023 · HARRISBURG, Pa. L. This law covers both domestic and wild animals and applies to pet owners as well as individuals who work with animals professionally. <br> </p> The most comprehensive law is the Pennsylvania Animal Cruelty Law, which makes it a crime to intentionally, knowingly or recklessly mistreat, torture, neglect, mutilate or kill any animal. --Except as provided in subsection (b), on or before January 1 of each year, the owner of any dog, three months of age or older, except as hereinafter provided, shall apply to the county treasurer of his respective county or an agent under section 200(a), 1 on a form prescribed by the department, for the appropriate license for the dog. You can obtain compensation for all damages if a dangerous dog bites you. Listed below is a brief description of the provisions of the Dangerous Dog Law. A dangerous dog under Pennsylvania law has, without provocation: Killed or inflicted severe injuries on people (on public or private property). However, the law doesn't make the owner responsible for other damages, like pain and suffering or lost income. (b) Grading. The Pennsylvania Dog Law, officially Title 3, Pa. The dog law enforcement office can take action against an owner for violating state laws. Dogs used for law enforcement. Exemptions under the act include state game/hunting laws, the killing of a dog or cat in accordance with the Animal Destruction Method Authorization Law, the killing of an animal found pursuing domestic animals/fowl, destruction of public nuisance dogs, pest control, "[s]hooting activities not otherwise prohibited under this subchapter," and Dec 23, 2024 · Shapiro Administration’s commonsense modernization of PA Dog Law is improving community safety and holding kennels to high animal welfare standards. A service animal may not be excluded based on assumptions or stereotypes about the animal’s breed or how the animal might behave. savingshepherdsrescue@yahoo. 23, 2023 Effective 90 DAYS PDF Licensing fees help the millions of dogs in Pennsylvania by funding the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement. gov Complete the application and mail to the address below for processing: Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement 2301 North Cameron Street Harrisburg PA 17110 Section 206. 20416 Bechtold Road Saegertown, PA 16433. Jan 22, 2024 · The fee for an annual dog license will increase to $8. The Dog Law Enforcement Office may investigate reports of misconduct. (3) Tethering a dog in compliance with the requirements of a camping or recreational area. Footnotes and credits have been removed for brevity. § 2131 et seq. AN ACT . 1 - 12) Dogs used for law enforcement. Whether you’re boarding, grooming, training, or caring for dogs in any capacity, there are state and local rules you need to follow. Mar 7, 2025 · This article outlines key aspects of Pennsylvania’s animal cruelty laws, including punishable offenses, penalties, enforcement procedures, and exceptions. A: Yes. (2) Tethering a hunting, sporting or sledding dog breed where tethering is integral to the training, conditioning or purpose of the dog. 2010) Pennsylvania’s Dog Law as it Relates to Agricultural Liability (June 2001) Agricultural Law Briefs: Commission Approves New Oct 24, 2023 · Harrisburg, PA – Governor Josh Shapiro signed Senate Bill 746 yesterday, updating Pennsylvania's Dog Law to improve public safety in communities statewide; improve conditions for dogs in breeding kennels, day cares, and shelters; protect those who buy or adopt dogs in Pennsylvania; and help prevent the spread of infectious disease among dogs. Cruelty to animal. ! For any person to knowingly make any false statement or to conceal any fact required to be disclosed under any of the provisions of the State Dog Law (Act 225). Licenses are not just a legal enforcement of the Dog Law. Stat. If you need them, please refer to https: Oct 23, 2023 · Welcome to the new PA General Assembly website. However We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. pa. Outside of fines for unlicensed dogs Summary: This Pennsylvania statute comprises the state's Dog Purchaser Protection law. Back to Law Information for 2008 Act 119 If you have questions regarding the application process, please contact the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement: Phone: (717)787-3062; Fax: (717)772-4352 www. Nov 17, 2024 · Pennsylvania has particular laws for dangerous dogs or dogs with a documented history of violence or aggression. If your dog gets lost, a current license is the fastest way to get your dog back home. § 201-9. By PA law, dogs and cats shall be vaccinated against rabies within 4 weeks after the date the dog or cat attains 12 weeks of age, and maintain a current rabies immunity as prescribed by rabies vaccine manufacturers. (a) Offense defined. Jan 1, 2022 · (a) General rule. gov" or "pa. Article VII. More stray dogs are found and picked up by dog wardens, animal control officers, and police officers in the summer months than any other time throughout the year. Can individuals with disabilities be refused access to a facility based solely on the breed of their service animal? A: No. The bureau does this by ensuring the welfare of dogs and puppies in kennels. Summary violations of the dog law cost up to a maximum of $300 plus court costs. How Dog Leash Laws Are Enforced in Pennsylvania. You can purchase your dog’s license from your local County Treasurer. Session of 2024. It covers the role of the Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement in protecting dogs, consumers, and communities; details how dog wardens assist with stray dogs, dog bite investigations, and humane treatment; and outlines essential state laws, including licensing requirements, rabies vaccinations, and kennel Jan 22, 2024 · Harrisburg, PA – Beginning today, Pennsylvania's updated Dog Law takes effect to increase public safety in communities, add consumer protections for those who buy or adopt dogs, strengthen requirements for all types of kennels, and increase penalties for those who violate the law and put people and dogs at risk. Reimbursement for rabies. seq. Acts Classified as Cruelty. , Chapter 45, serves as the cornerstone of dog-related regulations within the Commonwealth. Forty years later, dogs were trained to alert people with hearing impairment to sounds (hearing dogs). Finally, § 459-201 of the Dog Law mandates that every owner of a dog in the state of Pennsylvania must, on or before Local, state, and federal government websites often end in . The law mandates disclosure of a dog's health history by a seller (defined as pet shop operator or other individual who sells dogs to the public and who owns or operates a kennel or pet shop licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture or the United States Department of Agriculture). (5) This subsection shall not apply to personnel required to comply with standards to minimize pain to an animal set forth in section 2143(a)(3) of the Animal Welfare Act (Public Law 89-544, 7 U. com. 225), entitled "An act relating to dogs, regulating the keeping of dogs; providing for the licensing of dogs and kennels; providing for the protection of dogs and the detention and destruction of dogs in certain cases; regulating the sale and transportation of dogs; declaring dogs to be personal TEXT OF THE PA DOG LAW TAEadmin 2018-11-17T15:49:45-05:00. Mar 5, 2025 · Pennsylvania law requires dogs to be under control at all times, meaning they cannot run at large when off their owner’s property. (a) General rule. --(1) Except as set forth in paragraph (2), a violation of this section is a summary offense. The owner of the dog or cat shall maintain one copy of the signed exemption for their records and forward one copy to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, Office of Dog Law Enforcement, 2301 North Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110. 3 Pa. Amending the act of December 7, 1982 (P.