Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2022 | 2:31 p.m.
The Clark County Commission approved an ordinance today banning the sale of dogs, cats, rabbits and potbellied pigs at pet stores.
The ordinance, which passed unanimously, goes into effect at the end of December. But it allows stores already selling these animals to do so for one more year.
After that, they may only provide space to rescue organizations and shelters that want to put these animals up for adoption.
Officials hope the change will relieve overcrowding in animal shelters and reduce the market for animals bred by puppy mills.
The commissioners’ chamber was filled with people in support of the ordinance, many of whom echoed the same thing during an hour of public commentary: Clark County has a “crisis situation” due to the number of stray animals on the street.
“Today we heard from shelters, rescues, business owners, animal welfare advocates, policymakers, students, subject-matter experts and the group’s largest business interest group – the Vegas Chamber of Commerce — all in support of this agenda item I think because – like I see it — this is both the humane thing to do and the fiscally responsible thing to do,” Commissioner Michael Naft said.
Local pet supply shop owner Meghan Joachin said the ordinance would not harm her business. She said that House of Paws, the store she owns with her husband, has been able to profit even during the pandemic just from selling pet supplies.
“It is absolutely possible to have a successful and profitable business without selling animals,” Joachin said. “We continue to grow, and we are profitable without selling animals.”
The ordinance got some pushback.
Christine Barrello said “people who purchase dogs at the pet shops are not the problem” because pet shops care for their animals.
“Picking on businesses who are licensed and regulated when shelters are obviously a bigger issue right now than pet shops doesn’t make sense,” Barrello said.
If a pet store is found selling banned animals after the ordinance take effect, they will receive a violation for each sale with a $500 at minimum fine.
