Sandy Springs has joined other metro Atlanta communities in banning pet store sales of dogs and cats obtained from large-scale commercial breeders. Stores can, however, work with shelters and animal rescue organizations to offer pets for adoption, according to an ordinance adopted by the City Council.
“By limiting pet stores to adoptions only, we reduce the opportunity for unethical, large-scale breeders – those operating puppy mills – to profit on the inhumane treatment of animals,” said Sandy Springs City Attorney Dan Lee.
Pet stores must maintain records to document the source of all dogs and cats available for sale, and post the name of the animal care facility or rescue organization utilized in a visible space, the ordinance says.
The ordinance takes effect immediately. Violators are subject to fines of up to $500 per violation. Similar measures have been adopted this year by Canton, Holly Springs and Waleska, and the Humane Society of the United State says it has assisted more than 240 communities in passing the laws.
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