Aldermen, pass Chicago’s puppy mill ordinance now
The Chicago Alliance for Animals recently was contacted by a woman named Carla, who unknowingly bought a sick puppy in August from a local shop.
She said she “spent an unbelievable amount of money on a dog who has a genetic disorder.” She sent emails detailing the veterinarian’s diagnosis and the shop manager’s very rude and uncompassionate response. She also sent an email in which she said the manager thinks the store will cover the estimated veterinary costs of between $6,000 and $8,000. The owner then informed her that “medical bills are not covered.”
Ald. Brian Hopkins has proposed an ordinance to close pet stores that are still selling dogs for thousands of dollars yet clearly not getting them from authentic animal shelters or rescue groups, which was the intent of legislation passed in 2014.
Every day that this humane legislation is not passed is another day someone else will spend an insane amount of money on a companion animal, only to discover that they have been swindled through dishonesty motivated by money.
This common-sense ordinance is supported by the majority of aldermen and a huge coalition of animal shelters, rescue groups and animal protection organizations. This is a no-brainer. The Alliance urges that the proposed ordinance be voted on and passed at the Sept. 9 City Council meeting.
The silver lining of this preventable situation is that Carla loves Honey Coco, is keeping her and will get her the veterinary treatment she needs.
Jodie Wiederkehr, Chicago Alliance for Animals
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