Phoenix passed a legislation to shut down puppy mills, requiring pet stores to only sell adoptable rescues, reported Phoenix Business Journal. The city joins more than 59 others in the U.S. that have passed similar legislation to limit pet stores to only offer adoptions of rescued puppies and kittens.
Puppy mills breed dogs to earn money, which compromises the animals' health and well-being. Additionally, "the mothers and fathers of dogs sold by puppy mills often live their whole lives in cages, never knowing love or human affection," wrote the Dodo.
The decision in Phoenix was supported by the Humane Society of the United States, along with animal lovers and activists.
It is expected that pet stores will not be happy about this decision. Frank and Vicki Mineo, owners of Puppies N' Love pet stores, plan to appeal the ruling. They complained the requirements will unfairly hurt their business, which buys from only USDA-licensed breeders.
This move will help save the lives of millions of adoptable animals who are in overcrowded shelters and being euthanized.
