New York State considers law banning the sale of animals in pet shops

New York State recently gave the green light to a bill that would prohibit the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits by retail pet shops with the aim of giving domestic animals “greater protections.”

“With so many good animals in need of rescue, there is no need for puppy mills that abuse animals to supply pet stores”, stated Senator Michael Gianaris, one of the sponsors of this bill.

According to his proposal, by creating a barrier against the puppy mill supply chain the new regulation “encourages pet shops to partner with local animal shelters to showcase animals available for adoption.”

The bill also bans insurance companies from “excluding, limiting, restricting, or reducing coverage on an insurance policy for homeowners based on the breed of dog they own.”

Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins claimed that the regulation is necessary “to combat the mistreatment, neglect, and abuse of domestic animals.” “These bills also promote the proper care and consideration that animals deserve,” she concluded.

Nonetheless, the Pet Advocacy Network is concerned that the legislation “will do nothing to stop bad breeders across the country.”

“It will only harm regulated and inspected New York pet stores, the licensed breeders they work with, and the customers who depend on them for healthy puppies, kittens, and rabbits to bring home as beloved pets.” 

The bill has now been submitted to the State Assembly, which is currently debating the proposal. If it receives a positive vote there, it will be forwarded to the governor for signature or veto.

A similar proposal at federal level

The House of Representatives in Washington is also considering a bill that would restrict the sale of some specific animal species.

“This would harm small pet businesses and their customers by imposing a costly and lengthy evaluation process on thousands of species that are sought as pets but don’t meet the minimal threshold”, the Pet Advocacy Network warned.

According to the association, the approval of this bill could cause delays in live animal shipments, negatively impact animal wellbeing, and have a ripple effect on businesses that supply tanks, food and enrichment items.