Action | Promulgate regulation required by Chapter 1284 of the 2020 Acts of Assembly |
Stage | Proposed |
Comment Period | Ended on 12/23/2022 |
I am in favor of requirements for better care and treatment of dogs and cats sold by pet stores. The proposed regulations are a good start but, in my opinion, fall short of what is needed. Commercial pet stores should be subject to the same types of requirements, oversight and reporting as public shelters. Ensuring a healthy pet would protect buyers and increase confidence in their "purchase." Vendors of dogs and cats would also benefit from improved customer relations that would attend these changes.
Furthermore, since pet store animals are typically sourced from "mills" that provide inadequate care in unhealthful environments, greater veterinary attention of such animals should reduce the spread of zoonotic diseases that could threaten public health, including the health of companion pets already in the community.
While ensuring fresh water on a daily basis is important, how that water is delivered should be specified. Cats and dogs lap their water. A drip bottle system may be convenient for store staff but does not provide adequate hydration for the animal.
Thank you for considering my comments!