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Council bans retail sale of dogs and cats; ordinance passes 6-1
Summary
On first reading the council approved an ordinance to prohibit retail sale and possession of dogs and cats in Westminster; advocates from Humane Society groups urged the change citing breeder/supplier abuses and consumer protections. The ordinance passed on a 6-1 vote.
Westminster City Council passed on first reading Councilor’s Bill 26 on Aug. 25, an ordinance amending the municipal code to prohibit the retail sale and possession of dogs and cats in the city.
Amy Jesse, identified as Public Policy Director for Humane World for Animals, urged support and provided background on the rationale. Jesse told the council the ordinance would not affect existing local pet stores because none currently sell puppies or kittens and would not restrict pet stores that host adoption events with shelters. “To be clear, Westminster's market would remain wide open to the booming $154,000,000,000 pet products and services market,” she said, and added the ordinance would not affect responsible breeders who sell directly to the public.
Jesse and other advocates cited inspection reports and consumer complaints from other states and regions tied to retail puppy operations; she also referenced health and welfare concerns and predatory financing used by some retailers.
Council discussion thanked advocates and staff for drafting the ordinance. Mayor Nancy McNally said she would vote no, citing city animal-management staff advice and current state-level rules; other councilors supported the proactive local restriction.
The motion was moved by Councilor Amber Hutt and seconded by Councilor Arvin (transcript: “Arvin”). Roll-call votes were: Azadi/Izzati — yes; Hutt — yes; Mayor McNally — no; Mayor Pro Tem Sarah Narmela — yes; Christine Ireland — yes; Carmelia — yes; DeMott — yes. The motion passed 6-1.
Staff and advocates said the ordinance would allow pet food, supplies and services businesses to operate and would not affect adoption events run with shelters.
