Starting Nov. 1, pet stores in Fayette County will no longer be able to sell cats and dogs, following a 12-1 vote by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council to approve a ban on the sale of kittens and puppies. This decision comes despite pushback from two Lexington pet stores that currently sell pets. The ban places Lexington as the fourth city in Kentucky to enact such a prohibition, joining the ranks of Louisville, Elizabethtown, and Radcliff. Nationally, 492 cities have already implemented similar ordinances to halt the retail sale of cats and dogs.
The Humane Society of the United States has been a driving force behind the push for commercial sales bans, citing concerns about puppy and cat mills that often supply pets to retail stores. The organization believes that by prohibiting the sale of cats and dogs in pet stores, the demand for animals from these mills will decrease, ultimately improving the welfare of animals in the long run.
It’s important to note that the Lexington ordinance will not impact the sale of other types of pets, such as reptiles, fish, and birds. Additionally, the ban does not prevent dog and cat breeders from selling directly to customers. Those interested in adopting a pet will still have the option to do so through rescue organizations like the Lexington Humane Society.
Stores found in violation of the ordinance will face a $500 fine, with enforcement falling under the jurisdiction of Lexington Animal Control. The ban also extends to prohibiting the sale of cats and dogs in public spaces, aiming to prevent individuals from selling pets at flea markets.
Petland and Most Valuable Pets, two pet stores in Lexington, have expressed concerns about the ban, stating that they may be forced to close as a result. Petland, a national chain, has emphasized that a significant portion of its business revolves around selling cats and dogs, making it difficult to compete with larger retailers that also offer pet supplies. Most Valuable Pets, a locally owned store, has echoed similar sentiments about the potential impact on their business.
In response to the ban, Petland has indicated that they are exploring legal options to challenge the ordinance, advocating for a fair and reasonable solution that allows their business to continue operating. Elizabeth Kunzelman, vice president of legislative and public affairs for Petland, emphasized the need for alternative solutions that address concerns about puppy mills without shutting down legitimate businesses.
Despite the opposition from these pet stores, officials from the Humane Society of the United States have suggested that pet stores can adapt by adopting new business models that do not rely on the sale of cats and dogs. They argue that there are ways to continue operating while promoting ethical practices in the pet industry.
Ultimately, the ban on the sale of cats and dogs in pet stores in Fayette County represents a significant step towards promoting animal welfare and combating the issues associated with puppy and cat mills. While the decision may have implications for certain businesses, it also opens up opportunities for alternative approaches to pet adoption and care within the community.
