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Report Pet Store Neglect in New Jersey

New Jersey Public Guide​

If you see a pet store in New Jersey selling sick animals or keeping them in unsafe, dirty, or inhumane conditions, you have the right to report it and request enforcement action. This guide explains how to document concerns and report them to the correct agencies.

Stay calm, stay safe, and do not argue with store employees.
Good documentation and proper reporting channels are the most effective tools for helping the animals.​

1. What may constitute a violation​

Under New Jersey’s animal cruelty laws (N.J.S.A. 4:22-17), it is illegal to fail to provide animals with necessary care, including:

  • Adequate housing, food, and clean water

  • Sanitary conditions

  • Protection from disease and injury

  • Prompt veterinary care

New Jersey also licenses and inspects pet stores through local health departments. Stores can be fined or shut down if they fail to follow required standards.

Examples of reportable concerns:

  • Sick animals (labored breathing, discharge, lethargy, untreated injury)

  • Dirty, overcrowded, or inappropriate enclosures

  • No access to clean water or food

  • Strong ammonia or feces odor

  • Animals displayed for sale while visibly ill

2. Gather evidence​

While in the store, record the following (as factually as possible):

Store details​

  • Store name and address

  • Date and time of visit

  • Staff names on nametags or receipts

  • Types and number of animals present

Condition documentation​

Examples of useful notes:

  • “Three chinchillas in 2×2 ft glass enclosure. One lying on side, breathing rapidly, eyes crusted.”

  • “No water bottle visible. Heavy odor of ammonia.”

Photos and videos​

If allowed in public areas, discreetly take:

  • Photos of animals and cages

  • Photos of enclosure conditions (food/water availability, waste buildup)

  • Tags or signage displaying breeder information

Witnesses​

If others observe the same issue, ask if they are willing to provide a statement.

3. File an animal cruelty report​

Animal cruelty cases in NJ are handled by Humane Law Enforcement Officers (HLEOs) through the local police department and county prosecutor.

To report suspected cruelty:​

  1. Call the local police non-emergency number

  2. Request to speak with the Humane Law Enforcement Officer

  3. Provide documented facts

Suggested script:

“I’d like to report suspected animal cruelty at a pet store. There are animals showing signs of illness and lack of necessary care. I have photos, dates, and detailed notes. How can I submit this information to the Humane Law Enforcement Officer?”

Ask for:

  • Case number / incident number

  • Name and title of the officer handling the case

If a life-threatening emergency is occurring, call 911.

4. Report to the local health department​

Pet stores in NJ are licensed and inspected annually by local health departments. They can order immediate corrections or shut down unsafe facilities.

To file a complaint:​

  • Contact the local health department for the town/county where the store is located

  • Ask to file a complaint regarding a licensed pet facility

  • Provide evidence and request inspection

Ask for:

  • Confirmation that the complaint has been logged

  • Expected inspection timeline

  • Most recent inspection report (public record)

5. File a complaint with the NJ Department of Health​

The Office of Veterinary Public Health accepts complaints involving licensed animal facilities such as shelters, kennels, and pet stores.

Search for and submit:

“Licensed Animal Facility or Animal Control Officer Complaint” form​

Attach documentation (photos, notes, receipts, vet records if applicable).

6. File a Consumer Complaint – Division of Consumer Affairs​

The Pet Purchase Protection Act​

New Jersey’s Pet Purchase Protection Act requires pet stores selling dogs and cats to meet strict standards and provide full transparency regarding breeder information.

Required disclosures include:​

  • Name, address, website, and license numbers of breeder and broker

  • Birth date, sex, markings, and identifying microchip/tattoo information

  • Date and veterinarian of health exam

  • On-cage display of the two most recent inspections of the breeding facility

  • Prohibition against selling animals from unlicensed or recently cited breeders

Consumers may be entitled to refunds or reimbursement up to 2× the purchase price if a purchased dog or cat is found unfit for sale due to illness or congenital condition.

To file a consumer complaint:​

Contact the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs

  • Toll-free in NJ: 1-800-242-5846

  • Direct line: 973-504-6200

  • Online complaint portal available via the Division’s website

Note: The Pet Purchase Protection Act formally applies to dogs and cats, but complaints about sick animals of any species at retail stores may still be investigated under consumer fraud, cruelty, and licensing law.

7. Optional: USDA complaint​

If breeder info is displayed, and the breeder is USDA-licensed, you may file a report with USDA APHIS Animal Welfare regarding suspected violations in breeding/transport practices.

8. Follow up and escalate if needed​

Keep a log recording:

  • Every phone call and report

  • Case numbers and names of officials

  • Dates of follow-up contacts

If no action is taken, consider escalating to:

  • County Prosecutor’s Office

  • Local elected officials (mayor / council)

  • State Assemblyperson / Senator

  • Local animal advocacy organizations

  • Local news consumer reporters (optional)

Important reminders​

  • You do not need to buy animals to “save” them — purchases support the business model

  • Never trespass, physically interfere with staff, or threaten employees

  • Documentation + proper reporting = the most powerful tool for change