More US cities ban live animal sales in pet shops

Cities across the United States are moving to restrict the sale of live animals in retail shops following state decisions, citing concerns over breeding practices and the welfare of pets kept in stores. 

These local measures are adding pressure on states that have yet to act, following the lead of California, New York, Texas, Connecticut and Delaware, which have recently banned the commercial sale of cats, dogs, and even rabbits.

West Hollywood, California

West Hollywood adopted an ordinance on 15 September 2025 banning the sale of all live animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, hermit crabs and arachnids in city pet shops beginning 1 May 2026.

The measure builds upon California’s 2019 law, which prohibits the commercial sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in retail stores, and marks the most comprehensive ban of its kind in the United States.

Mayor Chelsea Byers says the ordinance reflects a decades-long commitment to animal welfare and is “an extension of the city’s commitment to caring for all life.”

So far, there has been no outspoken opposition to the new measure, and the city’s only pet store selling live animals, has until March 2026 to comply.

Denver, Colorado

On the same day, the Denver City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting pet shops in the city from selling dogs, cats or rabbits.

While no pet stores in Denver currently sell these animals, the ordinance is intended as a preventative measure to keep puppy mills from profiting within the city.

Denver is the 26th city in Colorado to adopt such a ban, joining Fort Collins, Littleton, Greeley and Aurora. The municipality of Westminster in the same state is also considering a similar measure.

The new ordinance also means that 15 of the 20 largest cities in the US no longer allow pet stores to sell puppy mill puppies, according to the Humane World of Animals, an American animal welfare organization.

Union City, New Jersey

On 24 September, lawmakers in Union City unanimously voted to ban the sale of dogs and cats in pet shops, requiring 3 stores to cut ties with puppy mills.

Following the ordinance, Union City became the 150th city in New Jersey to ban the sale of puppy-mill puppies in pet shops.

Easton, Pennsylvania

On 10 September 2025, Easton became the first city in Pennsylvania to pass an expanded retail sales ban covering mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians.

The ordinance also prohibits pet shops from acquiring these species from breeders, resellers or other sellers. Previously, the city only restricted the sale of dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs.

Pet shops may still partner with animal shelters or rescue organizations to display adoptable animals. Violations are punishable by fines of up to $500, with each unlawful sale counted as a separate offense.

West Chester, Pennsylvania

On 20 August, the West Chester Borough Council voted 5-1 to ban the retail sale of cats, dogs and rabbits in local pet stores.

The ordinance prohibits pet shops from sourcing these animals from commercial breeders.
Residents who want to acquire a new pet are encouraged to adopt from shelters and rescues or to work with responsible breeders that prioritize animal welfare.