California Pet Stores Now Only Sell Rescue Animals As New Law Passes

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
California’s made history with Governor Jerry Brown’s signing of legislation that requires pet stores to only sell animals from shelters or non-profit rescue groups.


It’s a great thing–but almost unbelievable to the point that Snopes even scoped its truth out! California has become the first state in America that requires its pet stores to only sell rescue cats, dogs and rabbits.


Related: Historic Bill Banning Puppy Mill Pet Store Sales in Hands of California Governor


The bill was called the Pet Rescue and Adoption Act, and it passed unanimously in the State Senate in September. It will take effect in on January 1, 2019, and will ensure that only dogs, cats and rabbits found for sale in pet stores are ones that came from animal shelters or non-profit rescue groups.


Assembly member Patrick O’Donnell authored the bill, aiming to reduce animals breed in puppy mills or kitten factories for the purpose of being sold in pet stores. He says that for the taxpayers of California, the bill’s passing is monumental as it will help save some of the $250 million a year that is spent to care for and euthanize animals in shelters. More importantly, he says that it’s a huge win for animals who are looking for humane treatment and forever families.


The bill was sponsored by Social Compassion in Legislation, and president Judie Mancuso said they are thrilled the Governor took steps to protect animals in California with the signing of this bill.


Related: National Search and Rescue Dog Training Facility Opens in California


And while you’d think it’d be good news for all animal lovers, some groups are not happy with the bill’s passing. The American Kennel Club and California Retailers Association believe that the bill will actually prevent pet lovers in California from getting pets from ethical commercial breeders. According to Sheila Goffe, the Vice President of Government Relations for the AKC, it’s not a good bill for Californians or the companion animals of California.

Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

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