Maryland Passed Statewide Pet Store Ban!

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