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New York City will ban the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits

The ban, which takes effect in December 2024, is meant to prevent the sale of animals raised by commercial breeders accused of keeping them in inhumane conditions, the New York Times reports.

On December 15, Governor Kathy Hochul officially signed a new law banning any pet stores from selling or trading cats, dogs, and rabbits. It's her way of putting an end to the "puppy mill" cycle and stopping unethical breeders.

"Dogs, cats, and rabbits throughout New York City deserve loving homes and humane treatment. I'm proud to have signed this law. It is a meaningful step to reduce cruelty and protect the welfare of animals across the state," Hochul said in a statement.

Animal welfare and rescue organizations have long advocated for this legislation. Pet stores, on the other hand, oppose it. Some owners say it would force them to close their businesses.

The law will go into effect in 2024. It will allow pet stores to charge rent to rescue groups animal rescue for using their facilities to adopt pets.