More than 1,000 independent pet stores in 42 states and the District of Columbia have now signed The Humane Society of the United States' Puppy Friendly Pet Store pledge, committing not to sell puppies and to support local pet adoption programs instead. The pet stores also provide free literature to help customers learn how to avoid accidentally supporting puppy mills by ensuring that their dog of choice comes from a reputable source.
Store owners who sign The HSUS' pledge receive a placard to display in their store proclaiming, "We love puppies. That's why we don't sell them." Pet lovers can find a list of the participating puppy-friendly pet stores in their state here.
About the Program
The Puppy Friendly Pet Stores* initiative asks dog lovers everywhere to work with their local pet stores to encourage them to implement a "puppy friendly" policy by refusing to sell puppies in their store. Stores that already do not sell puppies can sign up to show that they are taking a stand against puppy mills and to make official their policy of not selling puppies. Stores that do sell puppies should be encouraged to help end pet overpopulation by stopping the sale of puppies and supporting their local shelters and pet adoption programs instead.
Store owners and managers who sign The HSUS' pledge receive a sign proclaiming, "We love puppies; that's why we don't sell them," to display in the store, as well as free materials for their customers about how to adopt a dog or find a responsible breeder. The HSUS encourages shoppers to purchase pet supplies at stores displaying the puppy-friendly sign.
How you can help
You can help sign up stores in your community by taking a few simple steps:
- Get instructions and a copy of the invitation and pledge. Make sure to tell us your name, phone number, city and state.
- Visit your local pet store(s) to explain the benefits of the program and invite them to sign.
- Return the signed pledge to The HSUS Stop Puppy Mills campaign and we will do the rest!