California bans the sale of dogs, cats and rabbit at pet stores

California became the first state in the US to ban the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits at pet stores. The bill A.B. 485 that was signed by Gov. Jerry Brown requires pet stores to work with animal shelters or rescues if they want to sell dogs, cats or rabbits in stores and makes provisions for a penalty of $500 if a store is found violating the ban. The law, which will become effective January 1, 2019, still allows for private breeders to sell animals directly to consumers.

Private pet storeowners and the pet industry at large had reservations about the bill saying it would limit consumer access to popular breeds that are in demand and subsequently removed important consumer protections.