The sale of dogs and cats at pet stores to become illegal this fall in Lexington

In just over four months, retail pet stores in Lexington will no longer be able sell dogs and cats as a part of their business. The Lexington City Council Thursday night gave final approval to a local ordinance prohibiting such transactions. Council members earlier this week heard from supporters of this law. Fifth District Resident Monique Winther said she’s aware that the law treats animals as property.

“This does not mean that they should be treated as mere commodities to be purchased with the same uninvolved casual ease with which you can purchase a bag of kibble or a bottle of dog shampoo in the same stores,” said Winther.

Winther said stopping the sale of dogs and cat could actually boost consumer interest in that store. She said these retailers could add services like grooming and high end pet products to offset any loss of revenue from pet sales.

Janet Cabaniss, who lives in southwest Lexington, also addressed the Council Tuesday at work session.

“Puppy mills are known to be abusive of innocent pets and you’ve had that testified to already. Many cities, even cities in Kentucky have passed laws against retail sales from puppy mills throughout their local area,” said Cabaniss.

The ordinance includes penalties for violations. The prohibition regarding the sale of dogs and cats at a pet store goes into effect this November.

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