The New Jersey Senate has approved a bill that would require pet stores licensed after January 12, 2016 to exclusively sell dogs and cats obtained from shelters and rescues. The bill is now headed to the Assembly for debate. The legislation was introduced in order to combat profitable and inhumane puppy mills.
Senator Raymond Lesniak, introduced the bill:
“These puppy mills have gained a notorious reputation for putting profits ahead of the humane treatment of dogs and cats. Their mass breeding has created inbred health and behavioral problems and the inhumane conditions have left too many of these pets to suffer from neglect and mistreatment.”
Those in opposition (pet industry representatives, for the most part) are arguing that the bill undermines existing pet protection laws, in addition to introducing challenges to those attempting to open new pet stores. They also have concerns that pet choices/breeds will be limited.
Source: Country Living
People Pets
Photo: Woman’s Day
