© 2025 WEKU
NPR for Northern, Central and Eastern Kentucky
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Public Media funding has been eliminated. You can help! WEKU is working to make up the $240-thousand dollar annual loss in funds. Join our 1850 Campaign. 1850 donors giving at least $10 a month. We are down to 1120 to go! Click here to support WEKU!

The sale of dogs and cats at pet stores to become illegal this fall in Lexington

Supporters of Lexington Retail Pet Ordinance Gathered Following Final Action at City Hall 06-27-24
Stu Johnson
Supporters of Lexington Retail Pet Ordinance Gathered Following Final Action at City Hall 06-27-24

In just over four months, retail pet stores in Lexington will no longer be able sell dogs and cats as a part of their business. The Lexington City Council Thursday night gave final approval to a local ordinance prohibiting such transactions. Council members earlier this week heard from supporters of this law. Fifth District Resident Monique Winther said she’s aware that the law treats animals as property.

“This does not mean that they should be treated as mere commodities to be purchased with the same uninvolved casual ease with which you can purchase a bag of kibble or a bottle of dog shampoo in the same stores,” said Winther.

Winther said stopping the sale of dogs and cat could actually boost consumer interest in that store. She said these retailers could add services like grooming and high end pet products to offset any loss of revenue from pet sales.

Janet Cabaniss, who lives in southwest Lexington, also addressed the Council Tuesday at work session.

“Puppy mills are known to be abusive of innocent pets and you’ve had that testified to already. Many cities, even cities in Kentucky have passed laws against retail sales from puppy mills throughout their local area,” said Cabaniss.

The ordinance includes penalties for violations. The prohibition regarding the sale of dogs and cats at a pet store goes into effect this November.

** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, and fact-based journalism. Monthly supporters are the top funding source for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation.

Stu Johnson retired from WEKU in November, 2024 after reporting for the station for 40 years. Stu's primary beat was Lexington/Fayette government.
WEKU depends on support from those who view and listen to our content. There's no paywall here. Please support WEKU with your donation.
Related Content