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California Pet Shops To Sell Only Rescued Animals

California Pet Shops To Sell Only Rescued Animals

It'll be the first state in the US to change the law

Rachael Grealish

Rachael Grealish

California is set to change its laws so only rescue animals can be sold in pet shops - this huge step will make it the first US state to do so.

AB 485 is the new Californian law which will take effect on 1 January 2019 and any business that doesn't obey face a $500 (£400) fine.

The new law states that all dogs, cats and rabbits sold in pet shops must come from shelters and not animal breeders.

Authorities hope this law will help to putting a stop to the horrific puppy farms and kitten factories that animals are subjected to, often in inhumane conditions.

This law also follows on from the state's law change back in 2017 when California became the first state to legally ban puppy farms - following 36 cities across the state banning mass breeding in a remarkable landmark move in the campaign against large-scale operations that breed dogs for profit.

Cat shelter.
PA

Not only do authorities hope it will tackle mass farming of the pets, but also decrease the number of pets that are put down each year in shelters.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) estimates than more than 6.5 million pets enter shelters across the country every year, of which a staggering 1.5 million are put down.

Just earlier this month the UK implemented a similar ban with 'Lucy's Law' - named after a mistreated cavalier King Charles spaniel - which aims to put a stop to low-welfare animal breeding.

On 23 December, Animal Welfare Minister David Rutley announced the government would be banning third party sales of puppies and kittens.

PA

The decision was taken following a public consultation, which revealed that more than 95 percent of the public supporting a ban.

The aim is to help bring an end to horrific welfare conditions often seen in puppy farms and kitten factories - along with other animal welfare issues.

'Lucy's Law' means anyone looking to buy of adopt a kitten or puppy must get it from the breeder directly or from a certified animal rehoming centre.

During a visit to Battersea Cat and Dogs Home, Animal Welfare Minister David Rutley said: "This ban on third party sales of puppies and kittens is part of our commitment to make sure the nation's much-loved pets get the right start in life. I pay tribute to the Lucy's Law campaign and the many stakeholders who have passionately campaigned for this ban.

"I urge anyone who is thinking of buying a puppy, or any pet, at this time of year to pause and think carefully before doing so. Pets become a part of our families and it is a decision that requires careful consideration and planning."

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: US News, Animals, politics