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Proposed Ban Would Outlaw Buying Pets From Pet Stores

LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — A proposed ban that would make it illegal to buy a pet from anywhere but a shelter or humane society is a step closer to becoming law in Los Angeles.

The proposed ban, which would outlaw the sale of commercially-bred pets, has made it past a city committee and will be considered by the Los Angeles City Council. If the Council passes the ordinance, violators could face misdemeanor charges and fines of up to $1,000.

The law was designed to prevent pet store suppliers from mistreating animals and to reduce crowding in shelters. Eleven pet stores that primarily sell cats and dogs would be affected, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Critics of the law say people who want pure-bred pets will simply start buying them online and from local breeders.

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