Information for Retail Pet Store Registration
Effective July 1, 2024, Indiana Code 15-21 requires retail pet stores, animal care facilities, and animal rescue operations to register with BOAH.
- A retail pet store is defined as a commercial enterprise that sells dogs from a place of business at which the seller, buyer, and dog are physically present so the buyer may observe the dog before purchasing.
- Registration is active for one year. After initial registration, a retail pet store will be required to register annually with the BOAH. A notice of the entity’s registration must be posted in a prominent place of business visible to the public.
- Indiana Code 15-21
* Please click the button below to complete the registration application for retail pet stores
*Note: This form is NOT for Commercial Dog Breeder or Broker facilities.
Guidance for Retail Pet Stores
Dog Sourcing Requirements
IC 15-21 added specific requirements on where Indiana retail pet stores may acquire dogs to sell. The detailed sourcing requirements for retail pet stores are outlined in IC 15-21-5-6.5. To summarize, retail pet stores must obtain dogs via one of the following options:
Canine Care Certified Standards
The Canine Care Certified program certifies professional dog breeders meet specific standards for care, health and well-being for their dogs. This nationwide certification program establishes standards for physical and behavioral welfare in areas such as nutrition, veterinary care, genetic screening, housing handling and exercise.
