A person, firm, or corporation shall not own or operate a riding stable or sales barn without first having obtained a license under this act. The department shall enforce this act and shall promulgate rules therefor in accordance with and subject to Act No. 306 of the Public Acts of 1969, as amended, being sections 24.201 to 24.315 of the Michigan Compiled Laws. The department may designate veterinarians, qualified agents of humane societies, and other qualified persons to serve as its agents in carrying out duties imposed under this act. Horse auction sales presently licensed under Act No. 284 of the Public Acts of 1937, as amended, being sections 287.121 to 287.131 of the Michigan Compiled Laws, are exempt from the provisions of this act.