Veterinarian Kate Freeman Supports L.A. Ban on Sale of Commercially-Bred Pets

NEW YORK, NY, September 06, 2012

The Los Angeles City Council is considering a ban on the sale of commercially-bred pets, including dogs, cats, and rabbits. Los Angeles Times reports that the best interest of pets is at the center of this initiative, as animal advocates claim that pet stores and puppy mills may mistreat animals and that, according to L.A. officials, "Tens of thousands of cats and dogs have to be euthanized each year." Veterinarian Kate Freeman supports this ban, citing the increased number of animals adopted as one of many benefits that it could provide.

According to the article, violators of the ban, if passed, will be charged between $250 and $1,000 in fines. Matt Bruce, a spokesman for the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, Los Angeles chapter, believes that this will reduce the suffering of animals. Both those that are subjected to the mistreatment of breeders and pet store owners and those that are euthanized in crowded shelters would be spared.

"If passed, this will spare countless animals from needless suffering," comments Bruce. "Every time a pet is bought from a store, a pet in a shelter loses that opportunity for a home."

Dr. Freeman agrees, as she believes that shelter adoptions are the best way to go. "This ban on commercially-bred pets is a wonderful step toward reducing the number of animals that are in shelters," Veterinarian Kate Freeman asserts. "I wholeheartedly encourage the adoption of pets from shelters over the purchase of pets from breeders. Pet stores and puppy mill operations are not always humane toward animals, and there are plenty of dogs, cats, and other pets in shelters that are just waiting to be adopted into a loving home. By reducing breeding activity, we can improve adoption rates and, ultimately, decrease the number of pets that have to be put down due to space and resource limitations of shelters."

While the ban has many supporters, there are issues that may prevent it from passing. First and foremost, the article notes, there is a concern over an increase in activity by illegal breeders. Additionally, Councilman Richard Alarcon is worried that, while admirable, the ban simply is not something that can be effectively enforced.

Councilman Paul Koretz believes that approaching the issue "one piece at a time" is the only way to solve the problem as he does not think that a single ordinance will provide an effective solution. Dr. Freeman is encouraging officials to continue to develop initiatives that will support this ban and improve the ability of the city to enforce it.

ABOUT:

Kate Freeman, DVM, is a veterinary professional located in the state of Arizona. Veterinarian Kate Freeman provides her patients and their owners with a high degree of care through her private practice. Additionally, Kate Freeman, DVM, offers preventative and reactive treatment plans, diagnostic services, and general care. She also contributes her time to clinics that work to provide quality veterinary care to animals living in rural and wildlife environments.

Website: www.katesfreemanvet.com