The City of East Providence has recently entertained a proposal to ban the sale of puppies,kittens and rabbits in a retail setting.   Several Cities, including  Chicago, Il , Albuquerque, NM   Los Angeles, San Diego, and West Hollywood,CA have led the way. 

Rhode Islanders have always to be the first to raise their hands against injustices like these.  We are not stating that competent, quality breeders should be put out of business- just ban the sale of live animals in Pet stores to reduce the demand for animals bred in these these deplorable facilities. 

We propose that the entire STATE should place a ban on profiting from puppies, kittens and rabbits  raised and being bred in mills for the pet trade.

The vast majority of animals sold in retail stores are from Puppy mills or Mass breeders. Very little (if any) care, thought or good intent is brought to these animals' welfare as they are forced to live in filthy conditions without food, water, veterinary care and socialization;  simply to procreate for their owners' profit.  

This while there are millions of adoptable, worthy, healthy pups and kittens, dogs rabbits and cats alike that are in need of quality homes preparing for euthanasia in shelters across this country.  

We propose that the era of "how much is that doggy in the window" has come to a close. Their suffering needs to stop.  

Every state should prohibit this practice. Let RI be among the first!