I support much of the VDACS proposed pet store regulations (e.g. unannounced inspections), but at the very least commercial pet stores should be required to meet the same welfare requirements of Virginia's animal shelters to protect public health & prevent needless suffering.

For real meaningful compliance by pet stores, the VDACS must have the power of imposing civil penalties for violations, banning licenses to operators found guilty of animal cruelty & end immediate reapplication for permits - especially by repeated & egregious violators.

For-profit pet stores need to be required to engage a licensed veterinarian for care, medications, vaccines, age appropriate test & pre-sale exams as is required of public & private animal shelters in Virginia.