A new law could help shelter pets in New York find loving homes. Starting in December, pet stores in the state will no longer be allowed to sell dogs, cats, or rabbits. Instead, the law encourages pet shops to host adoption events with animal shelters.
Seven other states, including California, Illinois, and Maryland, also have laws that restrict pet shops from selling certain animals. More than 475 towns and cities across the U.S. have similar laws, which are often meant to help more shelter pets find homes.
“There are not enough adoptions happening at shelters and rescues,” says Lindsay Hamrick. She works at the Humane Society of the United States, an organization that’s dedicated to protecting animals.