California made national headlines by becoming the first state to prohibit pet stores from selling animals that are bred in puppy mills. Former Governor Jerry Brown signed the legislation into law on October 13, 2017. Under this law, pet stores that wish to sell dogs, cats, or rabbits must source those animals exclusively from animal shelters or rescue organizations. The law does not restrict private breeders, who may still sell animals directly to consumers.
The legislation, known as AB485, was designed to address the poor conditions commonly found in large-scale commercial breeding operations. Animals in puppy mills are often kept in overcrowded, unsanitary environments and are bred repeatedly for profit. Many suffer from respiratory problems, joint pain, and mobility issues due to confinement in cages too small to allow normal movement. While the requirements under AB485 are considered modest, they establish a baseline of accountability. The law mandates slightly larger cage sizes and requires cages to be cleaned at least once per week. These regulations went into effect on January 1, 2019, and violations can result in civil fines of up to $500.
Those Against the Ban
Opponents of the legislation argue that AB485 threatens the survival of traditional pet stores. However, critics of that argument point out that animals sourced from puppy mills often come with incomplete or unreliable medical histories. Pet owners deserve transparency regarding where their animals originate. With clearer documentation and sourcing requirements, breeders and sellers can be held responsible if they knowingly sell animals that are sick or injured. Should an animal become ill or die shortly after purchase, buyers may now have clearer options for recourse.
Those For the Ban
Supporters of the ban believe the law disrupts the supply chain that allows puppy mills to operate primarily for profit. By limiting retail sales to shelter and rescue animals, the demand for mass-bred animals may decrease. Advocates also hope the legislation will reduce the number of animals ending up in shelters, as shelters are often overwhelmed when puppy mills are shut down or raided by authorities.
Prior to the statewide law, 36 cities in California, including major metropolitan areas like Los Angeles and San Francisco, had already enacted similar bans at the local level. While California was the first state to implement such regulations statewide, more than 230 cities, counties, and municipalities across the United States have adopted comparable ordinances aimed at improving animal welfare and reducing the influence of puppy mills.
This post has been brought to you by Rocky Mountain Pooper Scoopers. Rocky Mountain is the leading pet waste removal service in the Greater Salt Lake City area, including Sandy, West Jordan, and Taylorsville. Give them a call today at (385) 392-0791 for a free quote. Weekly rates start at just $18.00. Visit their website at rockymountainpooperscoopers.com for customer reviews and additional information.
Happy Tails!
