Legislation to combat the “puppy mill pipeline” was advanced in the state Senate to improve the health and safety of domestic animals.
The bill, authored by state Senator Michael Gianaris, establishes a ban on the sale of puppy mill animals, pets that are often bred under inhumane conditions for the purpose of retail sale.
“With so many good animals in need of rescue, there is no need for puppy mills that abuse animals to supply pet stores,” Gianaris said. “Our four-legged companions should be treated with respect, not like commodities.”
Most of the animals available for sale in pet stores come from notorious dog, cat and bunny mills, which are known to be inhumane, according to Gianaris. Offspring of mill animals often have congenital issues resulting from poor breeding and can cost families thousands of dollars in veterinary care.
