Ark. Code Ann. § 4-97-102

It is the purpose of this chapter to require certain guarantees from retail pet stores to the purchasers of dogs and cats which are consistent with their unique status as companions rather than commodities. A further purpose is to provide a means by which it can be ensured that the treatment, care, and disposition of those animals is humane and that the treatment, care, and disposition are consistent with providing to the retail consumer animals which are physically and temperamentally sound, healthy, and fit as companions; to provide a means by which the acquisition and care of those animals can be monitored; and to ensure that the animals and facilities are managed in a manner noninjurious to the public health. Therefore, it is hereby determined and declared that the supervision by the state of the sale of dogs and cats by retail pet stores, and the inspection of such animals, whether or not found within the public area of the store, is within the public interest.