We need countywide measures to address the overpopulation of companion animals. Many cities are considering banning the sale of puppies and kittens sourced from breeders. I was recently at the Brea Mall, a Simon property, and discovered a pet store was selling puppies from out-of-state. Specifically, Missouri, which is widely known to have some of the most atrocious puppy mills in the nation.

The animals were in small cages that are wholly insufficient. Most had no toys or bedding, only shredded newspaper to absorb waste. The company has had other locations in Southern California over the years that have closed after many complaints relating to the poor health and socialization of the animals they sell.

Local rescues are overburdened and the county shelters euthanize far too many animals. Every animal purchased results in a death sentence for another waiting to be adopted. Orange County needs to take decisive action to curb the number of animals that are euthanized each year. We can't tolerate sick animals languishing in tiny cages while they wait for a buyer, nor can we allow the sale of those animals to mean lethal injection awaits those in our shelters.