April 22, 2019
On Tuesday, April 23, the Manatee County Board of Commissioners could discuss a proposal that would ban the retail sale of puppies. An earlier version of the meeting agenda referenced a Sarasota ordinance that bans retail sales of pets from a commercial establishment. It is not known at this time what might be proposed for Manatee County.
It should be noted that certain recent “pet store ban” proposals in Florida counties and cities have included definitions, requirements, and penalties for dog breeders.
The American Kennel Club emphatically supports freedom of choice in selecting a pet. AKC actively promotes efforts to ensure that people are educated, understand the demands of responsible ownership, and have access to a pet that is right for them. AKC strongly opposes any measure that restricts choice by compelling people and/or retailers to obtain pets solely from shelter or rescue distributors.
The Manatee County Board of Commissioners could discuss this issue at its meeting on April 23, 2019 at 9:00 a.m., Manatee County Government Administrative Center, 1112 Manatee Ave W., Bradenton, FL 34205, Patricia M. Glass Commission Chambers, First Floor.
WHAT YOU CAN DO: Concerned Florida residents are strongly encouraged to express opposition to restrictions on consumer choice. For contact information for Manatee County Commissioners, go to: www.mymanatee.org/government/board_of_county_commissioners/contact_your_commissioner
For more information, please contact AKC Government Relations at 919-816-3720 or email doglaw@akc.org.