https://www.humaneworld.org/en/blog/victory-500-us-localities-passed-humane-pet-store-laws
The campaign to end puppy mill cruelty has reached a significant milestone, with 500 localities across the United States now banning the sale of puppies from puppy mills in pet stores.
These laws, enacted in 31 states, reflect a broad, bipartisan effort to curb the retail market for puppy mills, addressing communities of all sizes and political leanings. The campaign’s success is largely attributed to a combination of public policy work, investigative efforts, educational initiatives, legal action, and corporate outreach, which together have contributed to driving change at the local, state, and federal levels, including the recent reintroduction of the Puppy Protection Act in Congress.
In addition to the 500 local ordinances, the movement has helped secure statewide bans in eight states, including Nevada, where 5 localities have already passed humane pet store laws. The passage of Cindy Lou’s Law in Nevada, which aims to extend these protections statewide, is a significant step forward. Similar legislative momentum is building in Texas, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Connecticut, where efforts are underway to secure statewide bans on the sale of puppy mill puppies. These victories not only diminish the opportunities for puppy mills to sell their animals but also reinforce the effectiveness of humane laws at both the local and state levels.
Despite strong opposition from Petland, the largest puppy selling pet store chain in the U.S., the movement continues to gain traction. While Petland has lobbied against these humane laws, many other pet store owners - both large chains like PetSmart and Petco, as well as smaller, locally owned shops - are embracing the change.
Over 400 pet stores nationwide have supported local and state bills that prohibit the sale of puppy mill puppies, showing that it’s possible for pet stores to thrive without contributing to the suffering caused by puppy mills. With growing public support, legal successes, and the backing of ethical pet retailers, the campaign to end puppy mill cruelty is on a path to further success.
*At Whiskers, Paws and Love®, we are committed to creating a world where animals are valued and protected from exploitation. We proudly support efforts to end the cycle of puppy mills by promoting adoption as the first choice for families seeking a pet.
By standing alongside organizations and communities pushing for change, we believe we can build a future where every animal is treated with the dignity they deserve.
Together, we can ensure that every pet has a loving home, free from the horrors of commercial breeding.
