New sanctions for unauthorised dog and cat sales in France

Animal shops in France can now be fined for selling dogs and cats or displaying live animals where they can be seen from the street.

The new penalties, which came into force on August 5, follow a decree published in the Journal officiel. They apply to animal shops and other establishments covered by France’s rules on the sale of pets.

The decree does not introduce a new ban but sets out specific fines for breaking rules that have been in place since 2021 for displaying live animals and since 2024 for selling dogs and cats in shops. 

Fines of up to €1,500

Until now there were no specific penalties for breaking this ban. However, under the new rules selling or giving away a dog or cat in an animal shop can now result in a fifth-class fine of up to €1,500 per animal. This can rise to €3,000 in the event of a repeat offence.

Animal shops can also be fined for displaying animals that are visible from a road or other area open to public traffic. This applies regardless of the species involved and can result in a fourth-class fine of up to €750 per animal.

The aim is to discourage people from buying a pet without thinking it through.

“The adoption of an animal should not be decided lightly. I had committed to ensuring that a decree would introduce sanctions for pet shops that do not comply with the law and encourage ill-considered and therefore potentially irresponsible purchases. I am pleased to see this commitment become a reality,” said Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard.

Adoption events are still allowed

The ban on sales does not prevent animal shops from hosting adoption events.

They can present dogs and cats belonging to foundations or associations, including animals that have been abandoned or whose previous owners have not been identified.

The presentations require the presence of volunteers from the relevant foundation or association.