A Queens lawmaker has proposed a state law that could put abusive “puppy mills” out of business.
The measure drafted by state Sen. Michael Gianaris would require pet dealers to only sell dogs and cats that are obtained from legitimate animal rescue agencies or shelters.
Pet shops would be barred from selling pets supplied by breeding farms that are criticized as puppy mills.
Pet stores that violate the edict could have their license suspended or revoked.
“The puppy mills would have no one to sell to,” Ginaris said.
“There are thousands of cats and dogs wanted for adoption that are stranded in shelters because of the puppy mills.”
Pet dealers would only be allowed to sell the pets at a reasonable price — roughly equivalent to the adoption fees charged by animal shelters, the bill states.
Gianaris said the fees could be several hundred dollars.
The senator said it shouldn’t be a hardship because reputable pet shops make most of their revenue from pet supplies, not sales of animals.
The legislation is modeled after a law that was approved last year in California, believed to be the first state to ban puppy mills by requiring pet shops to sell “rescue animals.”
Gianaris said several Assembly members have expressed interest in the bill and he’s hopeful the puppy mill ban will become law later this year.
“We have animal lovers on both sides of the aisle. The love of pets transcends partisanship,” he said.
