Within a matter of months, activists have succeeded in changing a store from a puppy mill vendor to an animal rescue venture.
A pet store in the small town of Elyria, Ohio was the target of intense protests by animal rights activists for months before deciding to close down. Now, a new owner is opening a pet store in the same location that will only have rescued cats and dogs available for adoption.
The previous store, Animal Zone, came under fire after many customers reported animals falling ill just days after purchase, with many reported deaths. The new store, Animal House, will not only feature rescued animals up for adoption, but will donate a portion of sales to Ohio Pet Placement, an independent nonprofit group.
All animals will be spayed or neutered and receive vaccinations. Dog training and grooming services will also be available.
“They are going to adopt out animals, not sell them,” said Becky Ayers, an activist who had protested Animal Zone. “And all are going to be spayed or neutered. That will be a big plus in our community. If only all pet stores could do this.”
via Chonicle-Telegram Photo Credit: doortoriver on flickr under a Creative Commons license.