At ARISTOPET, we like to echo all those measures that contribute to guaranteeing the well-being of our beloved ARISTOPETS. That's why this time we want to tell you about the latest measure adopted in Miami (Florida, USA). A measure that pleasantly surprises us and demonstrates that Miami is much more than the frivolous city that has traditionally been portrayed to us. Today, Miami is a city that has evolved in matters requiring special sensitivity, such as responsible pet ownership. We believe it is a very good example to follow, and that is why we want to share it.
From now on, the only sales of ARISTODOGS and ARISTOCATS allowed will be those of animals from shelters and regulated local breeders that have a certificate of origin.
This measure, taken by the municipal authorities, was approved by an overwhelming majority (four votes in favor and one against). Before the ordinance was voted on, a public hearing was held where animal advocates and pet store advocates could present their points of view. And clearly, the pet advocates won. Thus, this result puts the city's pet stores in the position of either renovating or closing down. Establishments will have one year to change suppliers, according to the requirements of the new ordinance.
The Miami ordinance was promoted by Commissioner Ken Russell. Russell leads by example, as he has four pets, all of them adopted. As can be read on his Twitter account, Russell assures that "we cannot control supply, but we can control demand." His purpose is to reduce the number of homeless animals that, unfortunately, are forced to be euthanized to zero. A figure that, as we never tire of repeating, is staggering worldwide.
A measure along the same lines, though less drastic than the current one, had already been in force in Miami for months. However, it reduced the number of pet stores in the city from nine to two in six months, according to the English newspaper Miami Herald. Therefore, it is expected that with this new ordinance, the results will be even more favorable.
Miami thus joins a long list of cities in the United States that have adopted measures against the mass production of animals as a business, and to encourage the adoption of abandoned pets. In fact, in Florida alone, fifty cities have already joined this measure. Most of them are in the same county or are neighbors of Miami, according to the list published by Best Friends Animal Society, an organization that aims to achieve a United States where there are no homeless pets.
There is still much to be done regarding animal defense and respect, but examples like this inspire us. Just like they recently did in the Netherlands, where they have implemented owner's licenses for so-called "potentially dangerous dogs." Or our Portuguese friends, where a highly anticipated legislative change occurred a few months ago that modifies the legal status of animals, which are now considered "living beings" instead of "things."
Let's continue this way, and together, very soon we will change the world for our best friends.