APPA, PIDA and PIJAC Address Hollywood, FL Pet Sale Ban, PILC

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The American Pet Products Association (APPA), Pet Industry Distributors Association (PIDA) and Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC) have addressed the Hollywood, Florida City Commission in a joint letter about the town’s potential pet sale ban and Pet Industry Leadership Conference (PILC), which is set to occur at the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort in 2018.

According to the letter, the organizations will be unable to keep the conference in Hollywood should they choose to proceed with a sales ban. The city commission will consider the potential ban at a meeting today.

“Bans like this one are actually counter-productive and harmful to animal well-being and consumer protection,” the letter states. “They shut down the most regulated source of puppies – licensed, inspected pet stores who buy from licensed, inspected breeders and distributors – and instead drive prospective pet owners to unregulated and, in some cases, illegal operations.”

The organizations and their respective presidents have offered the city commission the opportunity to discuss the ban with them before proceeding.

“We hope that you will reconsider this well-intentioned but ill-advised ordinance in favor of an alternate approach to the issue,” it further states. “Pet stores – and the entire pet industry – can be very effective partners in support of animal health and well-being and would welcome the chance to work with you in this way.”

If the ban is not passed, the 2018 PILC will continue as planned at the planners’ unanimous first choice location.