Judge Denies Lawsuit Filed to Save New York Businesses from “Puppy Prohibition” Law

Law Banning Pet Sales Will Close Businesses, Grow Puppy Black Market

Alexandria, Va. – Today, Judge Tinari denied a lawsuit filed by the Pet Advocacy Network and six New York businesses to stop a statewide pet sale ban, which will officially go into effect on Sunday (Dec. 15).

Mike Bober, president and CEO of PAN, which advocates for the responsible pet care community at all levels of government, issued the following statement in response:

“We are frustrated and disappointed that Judge Tinari ignored the widely available evidence that pet sale bans don’t work. Tragically, instead of improving animal welfare, this “puppy prohibition” law will close licensed and regulated small businesses that have connected many New York families with a pet they love and create a black market for pets. The New York Legislature should repeal this harmful law before more damage is done to animals, small businesses, and consumers.”

The Dec. 15 law will prohibit pet stores from selling dogs and cats sourced from professional, licensed and inspected breeders, despite pet stores already providing warranties to protect consumers.

About the Pet Advocacy Network

The Pet Advocacy Network connects the experience and expertise of the responsible pet care community to lawmakers and governing bodies, advocating for legislative and regulatory priorities at the local, state, federal and international levels. Since 1971, the organization has worked to promote animal well-being and responsible pet ownership, foster environmental stewardship, and ensure access to healthy pets, including small animals, cats, dogs, fish, reptiles, and birds. Pet Advocacy Network members include retailers, companion animal suppliers, manufacturers, wholesale distributors, manufacturers’ representatives, pet hobbyists, and other trade organizations. To learn more, visit www.PetAdvocacy.org.