December 5, 2007

AUSTRALIA – A proposed ban that would eliminate the sale of mammals in Australian pet stores faces opposition from store owners who say the problem isn't their fault.

We reported on the proposal a few weeks ago – when the legislation was first introduced by parliamentary minister Clover Moore. Since then, store owners have banned together under the wing of the Pet Industry Association.

The group has presented a petition containing over 10,000 signatures to the parliament, in hopes of stalling the move.

Reps say there's no evidence the shops are at fault for impulse buying. But proponents of the ban say stores displaying cute puppies do just that – compel people who aren't ready for the responsibility to buy a new pet.

They also argue that many stores get their supply from puppy mills – which are notorious for using unscrupulous breeding methods.

But opponents argue that a new code of practice is a better solution, since the new ban could force many shops to close.

What do you think of this ban?

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