HomeMy WebLinkAboutElizabeth Rogers 8.15.211
Danielle Marshall
From:Elizabeth Rogers <rogersea@comcast.net>
Sent:Sunday, August 15, 2021 3:05 PM
To:Danielle Marshall
Subject:Recommended Closure of Puppyland
To: Renton Planning Commission
I am writing to request the Planning Commission to strongly recommend the closure of Puppyland in Renton. I
am 100% opposed to the retail sale of animals—specifically dogs or cats—for profit. This practice presents a
clear and present danger to animals and the potential for abuse as well as lack of consumer protections. USDA
regulations are lax and do not assure even minimal standards of care for puppies offered for sale--see
summary examples below.
Abuse/neglect potential: dogs can be housed in cages that are only 6” larger than the dog’s
body. Exercise and socialization are not required. USDA inspections, which are “risk based,” are
conducted only every 2-3 years (and that was pre-COVID). Breeders produce large numbers of
puppies for the retail sale market, frequently under sub-optimal conditions. Maximizing profit is the
goal.
Lack of consumer protections: for-profit retail sellers such as Puppyland often offer few protections for
consumers. Again, the goal of the seller is to maximize profit, not care for the animals or ensure
transparency to the buyer. Puppies for sale are frequently seriously overpriced and turn out to have
long term health issues. Retailers’ financing plans can approach predatory lending, with interest rates
above even those of payday loans.
Potential buyers are often attracted (understandably) by the idea of purchasing a cute little
puppy. Unfortunately, this may be an impulse purchase. They may not have considered or be prepared for a
future in which the puppy has grown up. Puppies become adult dogs that need attention, socialization, regular
veterinary care, good food and exercise. Nonprofit animal shelters and breed specific rescuers in our area are
left to pick up the pieces when people neglect, surrender, or even abandon now-adult dogs they no longer
want to care for or cannot afford.
This situation is just plain wrong. For-profit puppy sales need to be banned in Renton. There are already far
too many dogs (and puppies) waiting in shelters for new homes. If people are looking for a puppy, please don't
buy. Adopt from a reputable nonprofit organization!
Sincerely,
Elizabeth A. Rogers
201 Union Avenue SE, #25
Renton, WA 98059
425-271-8736
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