The Humane Society of the United States presents Indianapolis City-County Council Vice President Zach Adamson and Councillor John Barth with the Humane Council Award for their efforts to help animals in Indianapolis by authoring a humane pet store ordinance to end the sale of dogs and cats in pet stores. The ordinance will protect animals and consumers, cut off the puppy-mill-to-pet-store pipeline and require five puppy-selling pet stores to transition to a more humane business model by 2025.
"Indianapolis residents should be proud that their elected officials are leading efforts to help protect puppies and members of the public," said Samantha Chapman, Indiana state director for the Humane Society of the United States. "We are pleased to honor Councillors Adamson and Barth with this award and thank them for their leadership in standing up to protect the dogs and cats languishing in puppy and kitten mills."
"Our community thrives when we extend compassion to all its members, including our four-legged friends. This recognition is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our residents, local organizations and city officials who have worked tirelessly to create a safer and more nurturing environment for our beloved animals," stated Indianapolis City-County Council Vice President Zach Adamson.
Adamson adds, "Let this be a reminder that as stewards of our city, we have a responsibility to champion the well-being of every living being within our borders. Together, we will continue to build a city where compassion knows no bounds."
Indiana has the second largest concentration of puppy mills in the country and is home to over 20 puppy-selling pet stores scattered throughout the state. With this humane ordinance, Indianapolis joins 17 other Indiana communities and 480 localities across the nation.
The HSUS recommends that those looking to add a new pet to their family adopt from a shelter or rescue, or seek out a responsible breeder who you meet in person and who never sells puppies through pet stores or online.