We, the undersigned residents of Gillette, WY, urge the City Council to enact stricter pet sale regulations to ensure the humane treatment of animals in pet stores. Currently, local ordinances do not provide adequate oversight, leading to repeated reports of animal neglect and cruelty. This lack of regulation has allowed businesses such as Hillcrest Pampered Pets to continue operations despite multiple reports of unsanitary conditions, neglected animals, and previous shutdowns.

To prevent further animal suffering, we propose the following city-wide pet sale regulations:

1. Mandatory Licensing & Regular Inspections

Pet stores must obtain a City of Gillette Pet Sales License, renewable annually.

The license is contingent upon passing a bi-annual inspection by animal control or a certified veterinarian.

Stores that fail two inspections within 24 months must have their license revoked.

2. Stronger Animal Welfare Standards

All animals must be provided with clean, sanitary housing, fresh food and water, and appropriate veterinary care.

Stores must maintain a log of veterinary visits and vaccinations, available for city inspection upon request.

Water and food sources must be cleaned daily and recorded in a logbook.

3. Ban on Selling Animals from Commercial Breeders (Puppy/Kitten Mills)

Pet stores may only source animals from licensed shelters, rescues, or registered local breeders who meet strict care requirements.

Breeders selling animals to pet stores must provide a certified veterinary health record for each animal.

4. Increased Penalties for Violations

First offense: $1,000 fine and required compliance within 14 days.

Second offense: $5,000 fine and mandatory temporary shutdown until compliance.

Third offense: Permanent loss of pet sales license.

5. Consumer Protection & Transparency

Stores must provide written health records and seller information for every animal sold.

Customers must receive a refund or medical reimbursement guarantee if an animal is found to be sick within 14 days of purchase.

By signing this petition, we demand immediate action from our city leaders to implement these regulations. Gillette’s animals deserve humane treatment, and it is our responsibility as a community to ensure their welfare.