California limits pet store sales of cats, dogs and rabbits to rescue or shelter animals only

California pet stores soon will be allowed to sell dogs, cats and rabbits only if they come from shelters or non-profit rescue organizations.Under legislation going into effect on January 1, store operators also will have to be able to provide records of origin for the animals or face a $500 penalty per animal.The Pet Rescue and Adoption Act was introduced by assembly member Patrick O'Donnell and signed into law by California Governor Jerry Brown in October 2017.Under the law, individuals are still allowed to buy from private breeders, but stores are prohibited from doing so.