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Manatee County Commission Considers Regulating Pet Sales to Combat Puppy Mills

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BRADENTON – At Tuesday's BOCC workshop, members approached the idea of regulating the sale of dogs and cats from retail outlets. There is only one commercial venue in Manatee County now selling them, and critics say they are fueling the "puppy mill" problem.
 
Animal issues can't seem to escape controversy in Manatee County, where animal advocates make up the largest bloc of organized demonstration. The workshop–scheduled to further understand claims that animal retail outlets need more regulation–was postponed from 1:30 p.m. in the Manatee Room of the Administration building, to 3:30 in the first floor chambers in order to handle the unexpected turnout of citizens eager to give opinion.

To a crowd of 70 or more citizens, commissioners listened to the horror stories of puppy mills, as well as the hands-on coveting that businesses like Pet Land claim are their practices.

Pet Land executives told the commission that they "do not buy puppies from puppy mills." Local animal advocates say that's not true.

Testimony from both sides stood firm on their narratives, and while Pet Land representatives said the argument may end up in the courts if they are forced to change their business practices, opponents said they have proof and would welcome a legal fight.

Pet Land said they obey Florida Statute ยค 828.29 (Pet Lemon Law). Opponents say they don't.

The board weighed whether an investigation by the States Attorney's Office was warranted.

No doubt, this topic will remain in the spotlight.

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