Animal advocates celebrate the approval of a bill that will end the sale of dogs in pet stores across New York, ultimately blocking the puppy mill pipeline.
On July 21, the New York State Senate approved S.4234-A – a bill to end the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in pet stores across the state. Sponsored by Senate Deputy Majority Leader Michael Gianaris (D-Queens), the bill is supported by countless leading animal welfare groups.
“With so many good animals in need of rescue, there is no need for pet stores to sell animals that predominantly come from abusive puppy and kitten mills,” says Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “Our four-legged companions should be treated with respect, not like commodities.”
New York State has one of the highest concentrations of puppy selling pet stores in the country, with about 2,000 puppies for sale at any given time. Puppies sold in pet stores typically come from commercial breeding operations known as “puppy mills” that are designed to prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals. Dogs in these facilities are often kept in wire crates without adequate shelter, veterinary care, food or socialization. As a result, many of them suffer severe health and behavioral issues – and families are often unprepared for the financial loss and heartbreak that come with buying a sick puppy.
After clearing the Senate, the bill now heads to the Assembly for their consideration. If the companion bill is approved by the Assembly, then New York will join other states and more than 350 localities in taking a strong stand against puppy mill cruelty.
aspca.org/news/breaking-news-ny-senate-passes-bill-end-retail-pet-sales
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Animal Wellness is North America's top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.
