LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – Supporters of a ban on the public sale of cats and dogs filled council chambers, again wearing purple as they continued a months-long push.
“This is a really important ordinance for Lexington’s animals and people,” said Diane Parrish, who heads Lexington non-profit Making a Difference Now.
An amendment to the ordinance kept Diane Parrish and others waiting for two weeks, but they got the vote they sought Thursday night, which they say shows the city’s compassion.
“I’m proud that we have said we’re not a community that wants to support business practices that I think are unfortunate at best,” Parrish said.
The ban impacts two Lexington stores: Most Valuable Pets and Petland. It will make public sales of any kind punishable by fine, now set to take effect on November 1.
Parish said more laws should follow this one, like cost-of-care legislation.
“It means that the people who are responsible for the problem are also responsible for paying for its solution,” said Parrish.
But she says this ban is a positive step that will create tangible change, stifling puppy mills while supporting animal shelters with overcrowding.
“Every puppy mill who loses a person that supports them, hopefully that interferes with their model,” Parrish said.
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