The Northern Ireland Executive has approved draft regulations designed to eliminate commercial sales of puppies and kittens by intermediaries.
Andrew Muir, who serves as DAERA Minister, described the move as a significant advancement in protecting young animals from poor breeding environments.
Under the proposed framework, councils will assume enforcement duties, building on their current powers under the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.
A prospective purchaser would typically need to arrange a meeting with the breeder at the facility where the animal was born.
This requirement applies to both the initial sale and any subsequent handover of custody for puppies.
The legislation aims to dismantle dealer networks that currently obscure the origins and treatment of young animals.
Lucy's Law derives its title from Lucy, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel rescued from a breeding operation in Wales where she suffered severe neglect.
Advertising requirements will mandate the inclusion of specific details such as the animal's age, location, council area, and an image showing the puppy or kitten with its mother.
Suppliers must be registered individuals aged 16 or older who provide health data and maintain detailed records.
The Department plans to submit these regulations for formal legislative consideration by the end of this year.
These measures align with commitments outlined in the Minister's Animal Welfare Pathway regarding improved standards for animal care.
The draft rules specifically target dealers and other third-party sellers, prohibiting them from supplying or selling young animals.
Campaigners argue that existing practices allow poor breeding conditions to remain hidden from potential owners.