“How much is that doggy in the window?”
If you’re in Atlanta, you no longer get to ask that question.
WXIA reports the city has banned the sales of cats and dogs in pet shops in an effort to curtail the operation of puppy and kitten mills, where pets are often housed in inhumane conditions.
Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms signed the bill into law on Wednesday. It passed a council committee unanimously last November.
People are still allowed to buy cats and dogs outside of city limits or from “mom and pop” breeders. Pet stores in Atlanta can still offer dogs or cats up for adoption once they reach eight weeks as long as they’re owned by an animal care facility or rescue organization.
“This is a landmark victory for the welfare of animals in Atlanta,” the Humane Society said in a statement to WXIA. “And the Atlanta Humane Society is elated to have been present for the vote and a proponent for more humane legislation.”
Critics of the bill, however, disagree with limiting pet store sales to rescued dogs and cats.
“Taking away consumer choice isn’t the appropriate way to do it,” State Rep. Rick Jasperse said.
Pet stores that violate the law could face a fine of up to $500 per offense.
