City Becomes First in Minnesota to Ban the Commercial Sale of Animals


Gary Papineau, the owner of Har Mar Pet Shop did not speak at Monday’s Meeting, where this decision was made, but in previous hearings, he’s defended the care of his animals, claiming that he personally inspects each breeder he uses and was willing to pay the fees. He also claimed that he was the only place in town where people could buy pure bred animals.

People who testified Monday, however, said pet store animals were not likely to come from reputable breeders.

The Humane Society of the United States surveyed American Kennel Club breed clubs and found that 96 percent have issued statements or guidelines against the sale of dogs in pet stores, said Christine Coughlin, the organization’s Minnesota director. Most quality breeders sell directly to families, she said, so they can be sure their dogs are well cared for.

“We know responsible breeders don’t sell to pet stores,” Coughlin said. “They want to make sure it’s a good fit.”

Coughlin said cities around the country are adopting similar ordinances, but she believes Roseville is the first city in Minnesota to do so.

Steve Olson of Roseville said he bought a Cavalier King Charles spaniel puppy from Har Mar Pet Shop in January and has been dealing with expensive veterinarian bills ever since. He said the dog was presented as the healthy pup of AKC-registered parents but it has been battling diarrhea ever since it came home. He did some research on the breeder and discovered that his dog’s parents were not registered after all, and the breeder had blots on its record in other states.

Animal rights activists have been fighting against the commercial sale of cats and dogs for years, pushing heavily for people to adopt. While they also complain about several other things (or anything really) they have a good point. No respectable breeder would sell to a pet store, especially considering where the dogs go if they don’t get sold. It’s a cruel practice and these animals deserve better.

Source: twincities.com



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