From the LA Times: California recently passed a law (AB 485) prohibiting, on and after January 1, 2019, a pet store operator from selling a live dog, cat, or rabbit in a pet store unless the dog, cat, or rabbit was obtained from a public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, humane society shelter, or rescue group.
The idea behind the law, as I understand it, is to stop pet stores from selling pets from puppy mills and kitten farms. A noble purpose, for sure. However, the American Kennel Club and the California Retailers Association opposed the law. “AB 485 blocks all of California’s pet lovers from having access to professional, licensed, and ethical commercial breeders,” said Sheila Goffe, vice president of government relations for the kennel club, in a statement. “This is not good for Californians or their companion animals.”
In Ohio, pet stores typically sell their puppies and kittens, sourced from wherever, but also have a section set aside for rescue groups and shelters to place animals for adoption to forever homes.
I’m in full support of putting mills out of business, and I’m not sure I understand the objection. People can still purchase dogs from reputable breeders, just not at pet stores. A reputable commercial breeder (i.e. a large breeder who takes good care of their animals) is free to invite prospective puppy purchasers to their farm to see the conditions in which the puppies are raised, check out the parents, ask questions of the breeder, and check health records for conditions like hip dysplasia and eye health for the breeding stock. All of which makes it arguably better to buy directly from the breeder rather than in a pet store.
Your thoughts?
Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!