Policy #5 --- Licensing of Exotic Animal Auction Markets --- April 14, 1997
References: AWA Section 12 and 9 CFR, Part 2, Section 2.1, 2.6 and 9 CFR, Part 3, Subpart F
History: This replaces the February 1, 1991 memo entitled "Licensing of Exotic Animal Auction Markets."
Justification: Until the proposed exotic animal auction regulations are cleared and published, guidelines are needed to address these growing markets.
Policy:
All auction markets that sell exotic or wild animals are required to be licensed.
The market operator is responsible for compliance with all regulations and standards, including transportation standards, once the animals are accepted by the auction market.
If the consignor is licensed, compliance will be the responsibility of both the licensee and the market.
The standards for record keeping, transportation, cleaning, sanitation, and general animal health and well-being will be monitored and enforced.
Incompatible animals are not to be held in the same enclosure or close to other animals that may cause them stress.
All caged and/or dangerous animals must be held in a manner that ensures the safety of the animals and the public.
A species-appropriate containment area is required around the loading and unloading areas to prevent the escape of animals.
