Vermont’s House agriculture committee is considering a bill, H.567, that would prohibit pet stores from selling dogs, cats, and wolf hybrids. Representative Emilie Krasnow introduced the legislation on Jan. 31, aiming to curb puppy mills’ presence in the state.
Vermont legislators consider banning pet stores from selling dogs, cats
A proposed bill in Vermont’s House agriculture committee, H.567, seeks to prohibit pet stores from selling dogs, cats, and wolf hybrids, as per The Other Paper. Rep. Emilie Krasnow of South Burlington is sponsoring it.
The bill, which aims to deter puppy mills and uphold animal welfare standards in the state, draws inspiration from the one in Maine. Additionally, several Northeastern states, including Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New Jersey, are contemplating similar legislation.
Krasnow emphasized the significance of preventing Vermont from becoming a destination for puppy mills. “Why that’s so important is because we don’t want to be open for business for these puppy mills and pet stores to come to Vermont that would be pushed out of other states,” she said.
Reportedly, similar concerns arose in Connecticut following New York’s pet sales ban when the New England state witnessed an increase in pet store openings last fall.
“We are lucky that the puppy-selling pet store industry is small in Vermont, with only one known store selling puppies.” Krasnow stated, adding, “That store will be able to continue to do so while we avoid an influx of bad actors who are looking for safe havens and who have track records of importing puppies.”
In addition, Krasnow stated the bill would not affect stores that already refrain from selling puppies. Responsible breeders and the retail industry selling pet products and services will also have nothing to worry about.
However, groups representing the pet industry and breeders have criticized the bill, arguing that it will only make the black market flourish.
