How much is that doggie in the window? The state says it’s not for sale.
Brooklyn’s pet store owners, known for selling furry friends, are hoping legal intervention will halt the incoming statewide ban, which they say will be detrimental to business in the lead-up to the holiday season.
In December 2022, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed a bill banning the sale of dogs, cats, and bunnies at retail pet stores, intent on improving the welfare of furry friends by ending the “puppy mill-to-pet store pipeline.”
The pet sale ban takes effect this Sunday, Dec. 15, impacting over 160 brick and motor stores statewide, five of which are in Brooklyn. Any stores found to be selling pets after the deadline can face penalties of up to $1,000 per violation.
Last month, the City Council passed a similar bill — sponsored by Bay Ridge Council Member Justin Brannan — that would ban retail pet stores or other unlicensed locations from selling cats, dogs, and rabbits — with a fine for $500 per day if violated. Mayor Eric Adams has yet to sign off on the bill, but if he does, it will go into effect the same day, Dec. 15.
‘We’ll figure something out’
Benjamin Santiago, the general manager of Puppy Boutique in Bensonhurst, spoke to Brooklyn Paper Monday surrounded by some 20 pups he hopes will be sold before Sunday’s deadline.
“We’ll figure something out. These guys are not going to go back anywhere. They’re going to end up being in someone’s home. I’ll even grab a couple myself,” he said.
According to Santiago, Puppy Boutique has been on 17th Avenue for the last 30 years and employs about 12 workers, who are now concerned for their livelihoods.
He stressed that their pets come from reputable breeders inspected by federal authorities.
“I understand that they’re trying to cut off the puppy mills, but what does our pet store have to do with that?” asked Santiago. “The job of eliminating most of those puppy mills is for the FDA, they…
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