Roadside Animal Sales

The Animal Cruelty Taskforce of Southern Arizona (ACT), acting on recent changes in Arizona State law, is beginning a public education and enforcement effort to halt the sale of animals on the side of streets, in medians, public parks, parking lots and other prohibited areas.

Although this behavior may seem harmless to many, law enforcement, animal control and humane organizations regularly receive complaints concerning issues dealing with misrepresentation or outright fraud on the part of the sellers, or expressing concern over the safety and health of the animals in question.

Recent changes in state law now compliment the existing laws of numerous communities in southern Arizona that restrict or prohibit the sale of animals on roadsides, in parks or at other inappropriate venues. While it remains legal for owners to sell mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians from their private residence via newspaper ads or the internet, selling these animals (regardless of species) in these types of areas is largely prohibited. Citizens are encouraged to check with their local police department to see what restrictions may be in effect in their area.

Regardless of how an owner decides to sell an animal, he or she is completely responsible for the animal’s care and well-being prior to the sale being finalized. This includes all medical care of the animal. Additionally, the owner is responsible for accurately representing the animal’s medical condition, breeding history and background.

The public is warned not to buy from roadside animals vendors, as fraud and misrepresentation of the animal is common and will leave the buyer with little recourse once the seller vanishes. If a member of the public is concerned about the public vending of animals, they are encouraged to call 911. Individuals who are found illegally selling animals in prohibited areas are subject to a fine or arrest, especially if the animals are being kept in conditions that endanger their health or safety.

HOW DO I LEARN MORE ABOUT THE LAWS REGULATING ANIMAL SALES IN MY AREA?
For more information, visit our LAWS page. Because regulations can change from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, we also suggest you contact your local police department or animal control for additional information.
SUGGESTIONS FOR SELLING ANIMALS LEGALLY:

The animal owner may sell the animals through newspaper ads, auctions, fairs, 4-H events, pet stores, Internet websites or from their private residence. They may sell off of private property, BUT ONLY IF THEY HAVE THE PERMISSION OF THE LEGAL OWNER. If the seller is vending from a parking lot in a strip mall, for example, he/she must have the permission of the owner or property manager to sell in that area.

SPAYING AND NEUTERING PREVENTS UNWANTED LITTERS AND SAVES LIVES!

Since many roadside animal vendors are attempting to rid themselves of unwanted litters or puppies and kittens, we suggest that they seek out low-cost spay and neuter services as an alternative. These services are widely available, safe and low-cost. The following organizations can help you with this life-saving surgery:

Humane Society of Southern Arizona Spay / Neuter Clinic: (520) 881-0321
Hours: Tues.-Fri. from 9:00 a.m to 4:00 p.m. | Sat. from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The clinic is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays.

Animal Welfare Alliance of Southern Arizona Pet Fix Program: Free spaying and neutering for various communities in Pima County.

Or contact your local veterinarian for additional options.

ANIMAL VENDORS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CARE OF SELLABLE ANIMALS
The intent to sell an animal (any mammal, amphibian, reptile or bird) does not absolve the vendor of his/her responsibility in providing the animal with all necessary care as described by law up until the point when the sale is finalized. The vendor may be held both criminally or civilly liable for any lack of care or misrepresentation of the animal prior to the sale being finalized.
ILLEGAL SALES MAY PUT ANIMALS IN DANGER DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS
Many animal vendors may risk the health and safety of the sellable animals by forcing them to endure direct sun or high temperatures. This is especially true if the sales are taking place on the side of the road, in a parking lot or at a swap meet. For more about keeping animals safe in the summertime, CLICK HERE.