Animal welfare

Animal protection: new sanctions for pet sales establishments

Publié le 05 août 2026 - Public Service / (Prime Minister)

In order to strengthen the protection of dogs and cats, new sanctions against pet shops and establishments selling pets are planned from August 5, 2026. Public Service inform you.

Illustration
Image 1Crédits: fantom_rd - stock.adobe.com

The decree of 1 August 2026 Imposes new sanctions on pet shops and pet establishments. The penalty relates to the illegal sale or transfer of dogs and cats via these establishments.

What already exists?

The Rural and Maritime Fisheries Code and in particular its Article L. 214-6-3 already oversees the activities of pet shops and pet sales establishments, in particular:

  • the conditions under which sales establishments are operated (official registration, compliance with health standards and animal welfare and protection rules);
  • a ban on the sale of dogs and cats in pet stores;
  • a ban on the display of animals visible from public roads.

What will the decree change?

The decree of 1 August 2026 creates explicit sanctions, including a fine of 5e class for:

  • the transfer of cats or dogs to the pet shop, whether for consideration or free of charge;
  • the display of animals visible from a lane open to public traffic.

As a reminder, a contravention of 5e class can go up to 1,500 euros.

FYI  

A pet store can host « adoption days » to present cats and dogs belonging to foundations or associations, abandoned or whose former owners have not been identified. These presentations are made in the presence of volunteers from the said foundations or associations (Article L. 214-6-3 of the Rural and Maritime Fisheries Code).

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