The sale of animals is expanding, and the laws regulating it are becoming increasingly strict. Specifically, on November 5th, the Las Vegas City Council (USA) approved by majority vote a new ordinance that will gradually prohibit the sale in stores of five species commonly kept as pets: dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs. According to our information, fines range from $250 to $500, and violations could be considered a criminal offense.
The legislation marks a turning point in animal protection and the business model of pet stores
The law went into effect in Las Vegas, Nevada, and new establishments will be at immediate risk, according to official sources. The legislation marks a turning point in animal protection and the business model of pet stores. It’s important to note that the stores are also prohibited from selling animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits. The 13 currently licensed establishments can continue selling until November 6, 2028. After that date, the ban will be total.
No new businesses will be eligible for a license to sell animals, and if an existing shop changes ownership, relocates, or loses its license
Existing pet shops enjoy some flexibility, so the law won’t apply to them until November 2028. Furthermore, no new businesses will be eligible for a license to sell animals, and if an existing shop changes ownership, relocates, or loses its license, its exemption will end immediately. Pet shops will also have to comply with a number of new regulations. Thus, the ordinance not only phases out the sale of animals but also tightens the requirements for businesses and breeders operating during the transition period.
Efforts are also underway to discourage intensive breeding and puppy mills; reduce the pressure on municipal shelters and rescue organizations…
Some of the main objectives of phasing out the sale of animals in pet shops are to regulate this business. For one thing, the prices of dogs and cats must be clearly displayed in the shop; efforts are also underway to discourage intensive breeding and puppy mills; reduce the pressure on municipal shelters and rescue organizations; and ensure greater transparency and accountability regarding the origin and care of the animals.
According to the Animal Defense Fund, at least eight US states already have similar bans on the retail sale of dogs and cats
On the other hand, in places like California, sales in pet stores have been prohibited since 2019; in fact, Governor Gavin Newsom has signed three new bills related to animal welfare. According to the Animal Defense Fund, at least eight US states already have similar bans on the retail sale of dogs and cats (and, in some cases, rabbits), except when they come from shelters. Furthermore, in California, pet sellers are required to share their health records with the state’s Department of Food and Agriculture.
Around 500 North American localities have adopted measures to curb the sale of animals from puppy mills
Furthermore, groups like the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals have long called for the closure of puppy mills. Regulations governing this industry will prohibit markets where dogs are sold by intermediaries, known as brokers. Furthermore, around 500 North American localities have adopted measures to curb the sale of animals from puppy mills. The regulations also ensure that store personnel must guarantee that the animals are kept in safe conditions. But as with any business, for puppy mills to remain operational, buyers and sellers are essential. Therefore, it is important that pet buyers are aware of the issues and know where the pets they purchase come from and the conditions in which they are bred and cared for. With a little social awareness, this situation can shift towards the adoption of pets in need.