As used in this chapter:

(1)  “Clinically ill” means an illness that is apparent to a licensed veterinarian based on observation, examination, or testing of the dog.

(2)  “Nonelective surgical procedure” means a surgical procedure that is necessary to preserve or restore the health of an animal or to correct a condition that would interfere with the animal’s ability to walk, run, jump or otherwise function in a normal manner.

(3)  “Purchaser” means any person purchasing a dog from a seller, as defined in this section.

(4)  “Seller” means any person, business or other entity engaging in the sale of dogs, except that this definition does not encompass the sale of dogs on the premises of and by a public shelter, pound or other entity operating as a nonprofit organization pursuant to Rhode Island law. Persons selling fewer than twenty (20) dogs or three (3) litters, whichever is greater, in a single calendar year shall be exempt from the provisions of this chapter.