> At a Glance
> – Jan. 1 2026: Six new animal-welfare laws go into effect statewide.
> – Laws close the pet-broker loophole, require import transparency, and expand vet staff duties.
> – San Diego Humane Society credits a coalition of advocacy groups for the victories.
> – Why it matters: Pet owners, shelters, and veterinarians will see immediate changes to buying, caring for, and protecting animals.
California will enforce six new animal-welfare laws on Jan. 1 2026, closing broker loopholes, requiring import transparency, and expanding vet staff duties.
New Laws That Will Shape California Pet Care
These statutes, effective from the start of 2026, address gaps in pet trade oversight and veterinary capacity across the state. They aim to curb unethical breeding, improve transparency for imported dogs, and streamline veterinary services.
- AB 519 – Closing the Pet Broker Loophole
This bill, authored by Assemblyman Marc Berman, bans pet brokers and any entity profiting from third-party animal sales from operating in California. The aim is to stop third-party sellers from marketing puppy-mill dogs as locally raised pets. The law is expected to reduce illegal breeding and trafficking.
- SB 312 – Puppy Importation Transparency Act
Authored by Senator Tom Umberg, this act requires dog importers to electronically submit health certificates within ten days of shipment to the California Department of Food and Agriculture. The certificates, which identify breeders and document the dog’s health, will be made public. This provides consumers and law enforcement with the data needed to spot unethical breeding and transport practices.
- AB 506 – Protecting Pets from Predatory Practices
Sponsored by Assemblyman Steve Bennett, the law voids deceptive contracts used by online sellers, including those that demand non-refundable deposits or fail to disclose an animal’s origin before purchase. It also mandates that sellers refund buyers within 30 days if a puppy becomes unavailable. The measure protects buyers from hidden costs and misinformation.
- AB 516 – Clarifying Veterinary Staff Duties
Authored by Assemblyman Ash Kalra, this bill allows registered veterinary technicians and assistants to perform any medical task not prohibited by law. By expanding the scope of practice, veterinarians can operate more efficiently and provide care to more animals. The law supports a larger, more flexible veterinary workforce.
- SB 602 – Improving Shelter Veterinary Access
Sponsored by Senator Dave Cortese, this act permits designated animal shelters to conduct essential veterinary appointments-such as vaccinations and parasite control-without requiring a supervising vet to be on site. The law is expected to improve access to care for shelter animals, especially in underserved communities where vet resources are scarce. It streamlines shelter operations and reduces animal suffering.
- Additional Supportive Measures
The legislation package also includes provisions to enhance enforcement and monitoring of animal welfare standards. It creates a framework for penalties against non-compliant parties and encourages collaboration between state agencies and local shelters. These measures aim to sustain the gains made by the new laws.
How the Laws Protect Pets and Expand Vet Access
The combined effect of these laws is a tighter regulatory environment for pet sales and a more capable veterinary workforce. Pet owners gain clearer information and stronger consumer protections, while shelters and clinics receive operational flexibility and increased capacity.
| Law | Purpose | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| AB 519 | Close pet-broker loophole | Bans brokers and third-party animal sales |
| SB 312 | Import transparency | Requires electronic health certificates, public record |
| AB 506 | Stop predatory sales | Void deceptive contracts, 30-day refund |
| AB 516 | Expand vet staff scope | Allows techs/assistants to perform all non-prohibited tasks |
| SB 602 | Shelter vet access | Permits essential appointments without on-site vet |
These provisions are designed to keep animals safe and healthy while reducing administrative burdens on care providers.
Gary Weitzman said:
> These legislative victories reflect SDHS’s broader commitment to advancing humane, equitable and sustainable solutions for animals and the people who love them. By shutting down exploitative puppy-mill pipelines and expanding access to veterinary care, we are addressing two of the most urgent challenges in animal welfare today.
Key Takeaways
- Pet buyers will face stricter contract rules and greater transparency when importing dogs.
- Veterinary clinics and shelters will have more staff authority and fewer on-site restrictions.
- California’s animal-welfare framework will be strengthened with enforcement and collaboration measures.
The new laws mark a decisive step toward protecting California’s pets and ensuring that veterinary care is more efficient and accessible than ever before.
