Update! The Commissioners have passed the Ordinance that bans the retails sales of cats and dogs in Sarasota. Hooray! Sarasota does say no to cruelty. Thanks to all who supported the ban.
Tomorrow – January 27th Sarasota County Commission will take a vote on the Ordinance that would ban the retail sales of puppies and kittens in Sarasota County.
Why would we want to ban puppy and kitten sales? Because the pets are produced in environments that are inhumane, often known as puppy mills. Puppy mills use dogs to turn out puppies until they can’t physically can’t do it any more.
Unlike reputable breeders who have programs to control reproducing congenital problems – this is a mass production affair. This ban would not affect hobby or in-home breeders. Many, many reports are on file of puppies produced in the puppy mill environment who are sick or have become ill later in life due to over-breeding.
How can you help?
- Attend the meeting tomorrow at 9:00 am at the Sarasota County Commissioner’s Office. 1660 Ringling Blvd. Building 16
- Wear red in solidarity with other advocates for animals
- Be polite
- If you are unable to attend, please contact the Commissioners via email here
The Commissioners will vote tomorrow – show them that Sarasota County says NO to cruelty.
The argument that banning the sale of cats and dogs will hurt small business is patently false. In cities like Chicago – former retail outlets have converted from live pets to pet merchandise and even acting as adoption outlets for local shelters. Don’t let ignorance and greed prevail in paradise. It’s not right and you can make a difference by attending this meeting.
See you there.