Why Animal Admiration Supports Texas Senate Bill 1652

Senate Bill 1652 (SB 1652), known as the Ethical Pet Sales Bill, provides Texans a fantastic opportunity to advance animal welfare, promote responsible breeding, and protect Texas families from the heartbreak and financial burden of unknowingly purchasing sick animals. As animal advocates, we strongly hope this bill passes, and here’s why Animal Admiration supports Texas Senate Bill 1652.

Texas Senate Bill 1652: The Ethical Pet Sales Bill

Many retail pet stores, like PetLand Katy, are accused of sourcing their animals from large-scale, out-of-state commercial breeding facilities, known as puppy mills. Puppy mills prioritize profit over animal welfare, leading to the sale of animals that are frequently sick, genetically compromised, and, often, unfit for life.

Personally, I would not buy a purebred dog or designer mix. I’m all about pet rescue! But, I would especially avoid purebred dogs at retail shops like Petland. If I were going to buy a dog or cat of a specific breed, I’d find a reputable breeder that knows and understands the breed, does extensive genetic testing, and has a guarantee on their dogs’ health and well-being that covers the pet against outcomes of irresponsible breeding practices. Therein lies the difference between ethical pet sales and unethical pet sales.

Addressing Pet Overpopulation and Promoting Responsible Breeding

SB 1652, aka The Ethical Pet Sales Bill, would ban the retail sale of puppies and kittens in pet stores across Texas, a move that, believe it or not, directly addresses our ongoing pet overpopulation crisis.

By banning the sale of puppies and kittens in pet stores across Texas, SB 1652 would help reduce the number of pets entering overcrowded shelters. It would help promote adoption from reputable sources, such as local shelters and rescue groups, because these needy pets would have a chance to be seen by potential adopters. And, it would protect consumers against purchasing dogs that are a product of irresponsible, cruel, and potentially problematic breeding practices.

Protecting Texas Families and Consumers

One of the most heartbreaking consequences of the current system is the impact on families. Unsuspecting consumers purchase puppies or kittens from pet stores, only to discover that their new pet is suffering from undisclosed health issues, sometimes resulting in thousands of dollars in veterinary bills or the devastating loss of a beloved companion.

SB 1652 aims to prevent these tragedies by ensuring that only healthy, responsibly bred animals are available in the market, and by promoting transparency in the pet sales process.

Creating Consistency and Closing Loopholes

While 18 Texas cities have already passed ordinances banning retail pet sales, a 2023 law now prevents additional localities from passing similar protections. This has, unfortunately, led to a new pet stores opening in areas without ethical pet sales laws, undermining local efforts to protect animals and consumers.

SB 1652 would establish a clear, statewide standard, eliminating confusion and loopholes while ensuring that all Texans and their pets benefit from the same level of protection.

Encouraging Adoption and Supporting Shelters

If passed, SB 1652 would also encourage pet stores to partner with local shelters and rescue organizations, offering pets in need of homes rather than supporting inhumane commercial breeding operations. This shift not only saves lives but also helps address the urgent needs of Texas shelters, many of which are overwhelmed by the sheer number of animals in their care.

A Call to Action

SB 1652 makes sense! It presents a compassionate solution prioritizing animal welfare, consumer protection, and responsible business practices. Passing this bill would make Texas a leader in ethical pet sales and set a powerful example for other states to follow.

As animal advocates, we urge lawmakers and fellow Texans to support SB 1652 and help create a safer, kinder future for pets and the people who love them! Learn more about the bill and the lawmakers who are behind it here.

The Best for Katy, Fulshear, Cypress & West Houston Pets

Animal Admiration Pet Care offers quality dog sitting, cat sitting, and dog walking in Katy, Fulshear, Richmond, Energy Corridor, Memorial, West Houston, and Cypress. For new clients, please contact us at info@animaladmiration.com or (281) 391-1015 to learn about our in-home pet care services. Existing clients, schedule your pet care visits here.

If you are outside our above-listed areas, please visit Pet Sitters International or the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters to find a professional pet care provider near you.