Maryland HB1551 regulates dog breeders by requiring annual registration and fees, establishing a fund for animal shelters and spaying/neutering.

Maryland HB1551 introduces regulations for dog breeders, including annual registration with the Department of Agriculture and a $150 fee starting July 1, 2028. The Dog Breeder Accountability Fund, administered by the Department, aims to promote breeder accountability and support animal shelters and spaying/neutering programs. Beginning July 1, 2029, breeders must submit an application for a puppy birth certificate and pay a $50 fee per puppy. Starting July 1, 2030, puppies must be microchipped, and the microchip number must match the one on the birth certificate to be sold.

Maryland HB1551 regulates dog breeders by requiring annual registration and fees, establishing a fund for animal shelters and spaying/neutering.

Maryland HB1551 introduces regulations for dog breeders, including annual registration with the Department of Agriculture and a $150 fee starting July 1, 2028. The Dog Breeder Accountability Fund, administered by the Department, aims to promote breeder accountability and support animal shelters and spaying/neutering programs. Beginning July 1, 2029, breeders must submit an application for a puppy birth certificate and pay a $50 fee per puppy. Starting July 1, 2030, puppies must be microchipped, and the microchip number must match the one on the birth certificate to be sold.