09/02/2025
CT RESIDENTS:
PUBLIC HEARING SCHEDULED FOR 2/10/25
TESTIMONY NEEDED IN SUPPORT OF HB5112
AN ACT PROHIBITING PET STORES FROM PURCHASING OR PROCURING DOGS, CATS AND RABBITS.
To provide that no pet shop licensee shall purchase or otherwise procure any dog, cat or rabbit for the purpose of auctioning, bartering, selling, leasing or transferring, or offering to auction, barter, sell, lease or transfer, such dog, cat or rabbit.
Please submit written testimony at https://www.cga.ct.gov/aspx/CGATestimonySub/CGAtestimonysubmission.aspx?comm_code=GL&emci=f363d887-71e5-ef11-90cb-0022482a94f4&emdi=72f36302-9fe5-ef11-90cb-0022482a94f4&ceid=11641290.
You can also watch the in-person testimony on YouTube Live at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXxaol184RUhUij_8HnLPkg/live
Below are some sample talking points to help you write or give your testimony.
Please edit using your own words:
Animals sold in pet stores come from large-scale commercial breeding operations, commonly known as puppy mills, where profit is prioritized over animal welfare. The fact is no reputable breeder would ever sell their puppies to pet stores for resale.
In puppy mills, breeding dogs are often confined to overcrowded, unsanitary cages with little to no veterinary care, socialization, or exercise. Many suffer from serious health issues and genetic disorders due to irresponsible breeding practices. Similarly, kittens and rabbits bred for the pet trade endure inhumane conditions, further underscoring the need for reform.
As public awareness grows regarding the cruelty of these breeding facilities, more people are choosing to adopt pets rather than buy them from pet stores. Nationwide trends confirm that pet stores do not need to sell dogs, cats, or rabbits to be successful. The overwhelming majority of Connecticut pet stores—both independent shops and major retailers like PetSmart, Petco, and Pet Valu—have already adopted successful business models that do not rely on selling animals from commercial breeders. Instead, many partner with reputable animal shelters and rescue organizations, offering pet supplies and adoption events that promote responsible pet ownership.
HB 5112 will:
• Reduce impulse purchases – Pets purchased on impulse often end up surrendered to shelters when owners realize they are unprepared for the long-term commitment of care.
• Cut off demand for cruel breeding operations – Pet stores serve as a primary retail outlet for puppy mills. By ending these sales, Connecticut would help dismantle a major component of this inhumane industry.
• Encourage pet adoption – Thousands of animals in shelters and rescues across the state are waiting for loving homes. Directing potential pet owners toward adoption will help reduce euthanasia rates and promote responsible pet acquisition.
More than 400 municipalities and several states, including New York, California, Maryland, and Illinois, have already enacted similar bans on the sale of commercially bred pets in retail stores. These laws have been instrumental in curbing the supply chain of animals from inhumane breeding operations while supporting humane alternatives such as adoption from shelters and rescues. Connecticut should follow this national movement to reflect the values and priorities of its residents.
The General Law Committee needs to hear your voice TODAY!
Please take ACTION now by submitting your public testimony in SUPPORT of this proposed bill.
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