Major US City Bans Sale of Puppies, Kittens in Pet Stores

Breeders are not affected.

San Francisco has passed a law stating that non-rescue animals cannot be sold in pet shops.

The ordinance was passed unanimously by the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, SFGate.com reports.

Pet shops are no longer allowed to sell “dogs or cats not obtained from animal rescue organizations or shelters.” Additionally, “puppies or kittens under eight weeks old” may not be sold in pet shops.

Katy Tang, who represents the city’s District 4 on the board, wrote that the law “does not prevent responsible breeders from doing business in The City.

She explained in an editorial published by the San Francisco Examiner that “San Franciscans will still be able to purchase animals directly from breeders.”

Tang stated that the change to the local health code will serve as a “deterrent.” She said there are currently “no known pet stores currently selling dogs and cats in San Francisco.”

Read more at SFGate.com