In a landmark decision for animal welfare, West Chester Borough Council voted 5-1 last night to prohibit the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet stores. The ordinance, backed by Revolution Philadelphia, Humane World for Animals, and Finding Shelter Animal Rescue, aims to cut off the “puppy mill pipeline” and protect both animals and consumers.
“This vote is a victory for animals and for our community,” said Tiffany Stair, organizer with Revolution Philadelphia and resident of West Chester. “Puppy mills and their brokers have fueled immense suffering for profit. West Chester has taken a strong stand by ensuring that no store in our borough will contribute to that cruelty.”
The ordinance aligns West Chester with a growing movement across the country: eight states and more than 500 municipalities have already enacted similar measures to shut down the retail sale of mill-bred animals. By eliminating this sales outlet, demand for cruelly bred puppies, kittens, and rabbits is reduced, and more families turn to shelters, rescues, or responsible breeders.
The problem with puppy mill stores:
• Puppies are imported into Pennsylvania from massive Midwest breeding operations with severe animal welfare violations.
• Puppies are taken from their mothers too early, shipped long distances, and sold in pet shops despite being sick and stressed.
• Pet shops often mislead buyers with false health guarantees and predatory lending schemes.
• The American Medical Association has raised concerns about the public health risks, including the spread of antibiotic-resistant infections from mill-bred puppies.
Instead of selling animals, pet stores are thriving with products, services, grooming, and training. Families looking to welcome a new companion can adopt from shelters and rescues, or seek out responsible breeders who treat dogs like family.
For more information about the ordinance and ethical pet sources, visit humaneworld.org.
