Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Federal Court upholds local authority to regulate puppy mills

Municipal laws requiring pet stores in New York to obtain dogs and cats from certain licensed breeders and then sterilize the animals are not trumped by federal and state laws, a judge has decided.

The laws upheld were meant to guard against the sale of animals bred in inhumane conditions and then were sold to unsuspecting consumers. Through their sterilization rules, the laws also sought to address overpopulation of unwanted animals.

The ruling reinforces the ability of local governments to crack down on Amish and Mennonite puppy mills in New York State.