California could soon make history as the first state in the country to ban all puppy mill pet store sales. Lawmakers have passed The Pet Rescue and Adoption Act (Assembly Bill 485) to ban the sale of commercially raised dogs, cats, and rabbits in pet stores across the state. The legislation will now head to Governor Jerry Brown, who has until Oct. 15 to sign or veto the bill.
The Jason Debus Heigl Foundation is extremely positive about this news which we hope will set a precedent for all other states to end the brutal and inhumane treatment of pets in puppy mills.
ASPCA President and CEO Matt Bershadker has called on Governor Brown to help vulnerable and victimized animals with his signature:
“The brutality of puppy and kitten mills and their connection to pet stores is well documented. These animals generally live in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions — sometimes in wire-floored cages stacked in tall columns — without adequate veterinary care, food, water or socialization. Animals bred in these conditions may also suffer from severe health issues, including contagious and deadly diseases and congenital defects, as well as behavioral challenges. By cutting off the puppy mill pipeline that moves cruelly bred animals from across the country into California pet stores, A.B. 485 will also help prevent California consumers from being duped into purchases that contribute to unconscionable animal ‘production’ and suffering.”
If you live in California, we would strongly urge you to add your signature to the form on the ASPCA web site requesting that Governor Brown sign A.B. 485 into law.
Please help to put an end to puppy mills!