Feb 28, 2014 8:35 PM by Matt Fernandez
City of Tucson considering puppy mill ban
TUCSON - The City of Tucson is considering an ordinance keeping stores from purchasing pets from puppy mills, rather they would have to be donated.
Councilman Steve Kozachik and City Council worked to put this proposal together.
"The ordinance is saying if your selling dogs and cats on the retail basis in Tucson source them through a shelter or rescue agency, that way you are not using a puppy mill as your source or backyard breeders. It would help to ease the overcrowding we are experiencing," said Kozachik.
A Tucson dog owner said she favors the proposed ordinance. "People will know their dog isn't coming from a puppy mill because we have far too many dogs that are rescue dogs now."
Rhea Dugan, owner of The Puppy Place opposes the ordinance.
"A lot of our pets are donated but in order to pay our bills and stay in business we buy local puppies," said Dugan.
Dugan says when they buy these puppies, the store makes sure they're healthy.
"We vaccinate them, we take on the responsibility of their health with vaccination, deworming, and vet visit."
She says this ordinance could really jeopardize their business. "We have choices in closing, moving out the city, all of these are frightening."
City Council considers the ban on Tuesday. We'll follow up and let you know what happens.
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