Animals

Statewide legislation to ban roadside animal sales

It’s common for vendors to sell animals on the roadside or at weekend flea markets in Richmond, but that may change next month. Gov. Jerry Brown signed legislation this summer that bans unregulated pet sales. The two-part law goes into effect on Jan. 1 and prohibits the sale of animals on roads, street corners, parking lots, flea markets, boardwalks and other public venues. The legislation also stiffens the penalties for animal neglect, raising fines and maximum jail time for those…

Before you buy, adopt: Give a Richmond pet a home for the holidays

With the holidays coming up, it’s time to start planning something special for family members, spouses and friends. But a gift for your loved one can also be the greatest gift of all for an adoptable pet — a home. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals estimates that five to seven million animals enter shelters every year, and December is one of the slowest months for adoptions. Potential adoptees are busy with holiday obligations or travel…