Maryland became the 2nd state in the country today to pass a strong anti-puppy mill law when Maryland Governor Hogan signed HB1662 , banning the sale of dogs from puppy mills from being sold in Maryland pet stores. The legislation, which passed with near unanimous bi-partisan support in both the House of Delegates and the Senate, also encourages pet stores to partner with local shelters and rescues to further adoption of homeless pets. Additionally, it strengthens consumer protection laws for animals purchased from pet stores.
Maryland joins California and 270 municipalities nationwide that already have existing bans. Maryland lawmakers today sent a message that their state will no longer tolerate the sale in their state of animals raised in the horrific conditions found in many commercial breeding facilities.
The bill goes into effect on January 1, 2020 allowing existing pet stores in the state (seven of them) additional time to change their business model to a humane model that does not source puppies and kittens from commercial breeding facilities (puppy mills). Thankfully, hundreds of pet stores nationwide, both large chains and small mom-and-pop stores, have adopted such a humane business model, and it has been successful. Adoption works!
It is our hope at Harley’s Dream that other states and municipalities will follow suit and pass similar legislation. No dog should ever have to suffer in a puppy mill.
Written by Harley’s Hero, Ruby Tuesday Markuson
How FANTANIC ONLY 48 TO GO
YAY! Now lets get the rest of the states to do it!!! CALIFORNIA already passed it =) =)
Excellent!!!! Only 48 more to go!!!!
Great new 48 states to go
I am so proud of Maryland! I live in Washington, D.C. right next to Maryland. They were on the news tonight talking about what they decided and I almost cried with joy! I hope many other states will follow.
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what a great victory – can’t wait until all 50 states are on board
This is great news, but I wish it was earlier than 2020!
All States should have the puppy mill BAN! 🐾🐾
Hope more follow their example.
This is wonderful news. Let’s hope others follow.
That’s great!! Harley, we are getting closer to your Dream!!
I live in MD and cannot even begin to tell you how thrilled I am!!!!! Thank you to everyone, especially our representatives, that made this come true. Finally, proud to be in MD!
Yay!!
Wooftastic news!
What to go Maryland!
3 bum swings! 3 more!
#globalnotopuppymills!
Nose nudges,
CEO Olivia
Wonderful news! I wish this law was in all states.
Pawsome news!!!!!!! Yippeeeeee! It’s only a matter of time before the other 48 follow suit.
AWESOME!!! Proud to be a Californian! Let’s keep going strong with Harley’s Dream!