02.01.22 Regular Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes February 1, 2022 Phil Watson, from Texans United for Pets, spoke in opposition of the proposed pet -store ban ordinance as it is currently written. He stated pet breeding or sales through businesses are regulated by the Texas Occupational Code 802 and the USDA Animal Welfare Act. Mr. Watson mentioned if any welfare operator violates standard of humane treatment there can be serious consequences from state and federal authorities. He stated providing local residents access to local pet shops operating under state and federal regulations to protect consumers and ensures humane treatment of pets. He proposed an amendment that would allow pet shops to sell healthy and humanely treated pets from breeders licensed under state and federal law. He would like council to consider the suggested amendment to the proposed ordinance. Lauren Loney, Texas state director for the Humane Society of the United States, support the humane pet store ordinance. She stated this ordinance is a strong stance against the well documented consumer protection and animal welfare concerns. Ms. Loney stated this ordinance will encourage existing businesses to become supporters of local animal shelter and animal rescues rather than adding to the overpopulated issues. She hopes council will join the 10 Texas cities and 400 localities across the county that have passed similar ordinances prohibiting the retail sale of puppy mill puppies. Donnie Stolte, manager at Pick a Pet, expressed concern that anyone would mention impropriety in the manner in how they receive, sale and care for puppies. He stated the store ensures that proper documentation is received providing vaccinations and medications are administered. They are here to serve the community with the highest standards and care for the animals. Elizabeth Oreck, National Manager Puppy Mill Initiatives for Best Friends Animal Society, spoke in support of the proposed humane pet sales ordinance. She stated many adoptable dogs and cats are dying for lack of homes and this ordinance is an effective, reasonable, and business friendly way to address the issues. She stated this ordinance will protect pets and consumers by preventing out of state puppy and kitten mills from selling inhumanely bred pets through local pet stores. Ms. Oreck stated this will allow pets stores to sell products and services a $58B industry in the U.S. She thanked council for the consideration on this issue. Rafael Ramirez, shared his experience with his purchase of his puppy at the store. He stated the staff is great and very helpful with the transition period to the new environment. He mentioned that previous health information and vaccination records were provided. City of San Marcos Page 4