PETITION TARGET: Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources
Every year in the United States, millions of dogs and cats — along with other animals — suffer in overcrowded, stressful shelters. Hundreds of thousands pay the ultimate price: killed in large part because people choose to buy them from pet shops instead of giving homeless animals a chance.
Now, a new bill has been introduced in Massachusetts that would ban the sale of dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs in pet stores across the state.
“Whether you’re a Democrat, a Republican, or an independent, chances are you’ve encountered a dog or cat in your life,” said Representative Adam J. Scanlon, who introduced the legislation. “They all bring us joy in many different ways…we’re going to do everything we can to ensure that our animals are safe.”
If enacted, H.4319/S.618 would not only outlaw the retail sale of these animals but also permit pet shops to partner with rescues and shelters to showcase them for adoption.
This critical measure could both dramatically reduce the number of animals facing suffering or euthanasia in Massachusetts shelters and help curb the breeding of animals in cruel facilities for profit.
Sign our petition urging Massachusetts lawmakers to back this bill and give homeless dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs a better chance of being adopted into loving homes.
