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Madison council bans retail sale of cats and dogs, approves ordinance after hours of testimony
Summary
The Madison Common Council on Nov. 25 adopted an ordinance prohibiting retail pet stores from selling cats and dogs (Legistar 90,423) after extensive public comment. Supporters said the move prevents puppy-mill supply chains; opponents — including veterinarians and retailers — warned it would remove regulated options and not reach illegal breeders.
The Madison Common Council voted Nov. 25 to adopt an ordinance that will prohibit retail pet stores from selling cats and dogs in the city (Legistar 90,423).
Supporters, including several animal-welfare advocates and rescuers who testified in public comment, said the measure is a preventive step to block the puppy‑mill‑to‑pet‑store pipeline from taking root in Madison. "I strongly support pet stores not selling animals in the city of Madison," said Lauren Brinkman, founder and director of Underdog Pet Rescue and Vet Services. Megan Nicholson, Wisconsin state director for Humane World for Animals, urged the council to "pass ordinance 90,423," citing animal‑welfare and consumer‑protection concerns and pointing to other localities and states that have…
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