How long must pounds or shelters hold live cats or dogs before supplying them to a Class B dealer?

The correct answer is that pounds or shelters must hold live cats or dogs for five full days before they can supply them to a Class B dealer. This regulation is in place to ensure a minimum period during which animals can be reclaimed by their owners, allowing enough time for lost pets to be returned to their homes. The five-day holding period reflects a balance between the welfare of the animals and the operational needs of shelters.

Class B dealers, who primarily acquire animals from various sources for resale, are subject to regulations that prioritize ethical treatment and care for the animals they handle. By enforcing the holding period, the Animal Welfare Act aims to mitigate the risk of inadvertently contributing to the loss of pets and emphasizes the importance of giving owners a fair chance to find and reclaim their lost animals.