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PIJAC Expresses Concern, Optimism Over Ordinance Outlawing Sale of Pets in Las Vegas

Pet Age Staff//January 13, 2016//

PIJAC Expresses Concern, Optimism Over Ordinance Outlawing Sale of Pets in Las Vegas

Pet Age Staff //January 13, 2016//

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PIJAC President and CEO Mike Bober has issued a response to Las Vegas City Council’s vote narrowly approving a proposed ordinance outlawing the retail sale of puppies, kittens and pot-bellied pigs.

After much public input and debate, the ordinance passed on a 4 to 3 vote after a last-minute amendment delaying implementation for a period of two years.

“While we are certainly disappointed that the council saw fit to pass a sales ban at all,” Bober said, “their decision to hold off on putting it into effect means that we have an opportunity to address numerous misrepresentations and misunderstandings presented as fact during today’s hearing before they do irreparable harm to two responsible local businesses.”

A recent Harris Poll found that, by an overwhelming margin, America’s dog and cat owners say the best way to crack down on illegal breeding is not to ban the sale of dogs and cats at local pet stores, but rather to enact and enforce enhanced breeding standards.

“Bans like this one do nothing to address the larger issues of animal health and responsible breeding practices, and the public agrees that these sales prohibitions are not the answer,” Bober said. “While adopting from local shelters and rescues may be the right choice for some, it should remain exactly that – a choice.”

Bober stated that PIJJAC will continue to work with lawmakers to create legislation that will protect pet owners and prioritize the health if companion animals.