Animal welfare advocates applaud New York state’s bill banning pets from being sold in retail stores Animal welfare advocates in New York state announced that the state recently passed a statewide bill that would ban the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in retail pet stores to “end

Animal welfare advocates praise New York State Bill bans the sale of pets in retail stores

Animal welfare advocates in New York state announced that the state recently passed a statewide bill that bans the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in retail pet stores to "end the transportation channel from puppy mills to pet stores and prevent breeders from mistreating animals," and help more stray and abandoned pets find homes.

New York State Governor Cathy Hochul approved the bill on December 15, saying, "New York State's dogs, cats and rabbits deserve loving homes and humane treatment." Hochul said the bill "will take meaningful steps to reduce animal cruelty and protect the welfare of animals across the state."

The bill, which would take effect in 2024, would not completely ban pet stores from displaying four-legged pets, as retailers may charge rent to rescue groups to display pets ready for adoption. But its supporters hailed it as a major achievement for animal welfare.