The Humane Society of the United States recently released a report alleging that Fashionable Pets in Paramus, NJ, sourced a dog from a breeder with animal welfare violations. This report, based on undercover investigations and a review of over 1,400 dog shipments into New Jersey, raises concerns about the sourcing practices of pet stores in the state. The investigation highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the origin of puppies sold in local pet stores and the conditions in which they are bred.
Sourcing Practices Questioned at Fashionable Pets
The Humane Society’s report claims Fashionable Pets obtained at least one Yorkshire terrier from Missouri breeder Johnny Dake in December 2015. Dake had previously been cited for violations, including a deceased puppy found outside in freezing temperatures. The report contends this purchase violated New Jersey’s Pet Purchase Protection Act (PPPA), which prohibits sourcing from breeders with recent violations. Fashionable Pets owner, Anthony Kagan, disputes this claim, stating the purchase occurred in September 2014, before the PPPA was enacted. He maintains the dog was a special order for a client.
The report also cites Fashionable Pets for failing to provide customers with breeder information, another violation of the PPPA. The store was among over 20 New Jersey pet stores cited for noncompliance in January. While Fashionable Pets settled these allegations with a $2,500 fine, the incident further fuels concerns about transparency and adherence to regulations.
Statewide Investigation Reveals Widespread Concerns
The Humane Society’s investigation extended beyond Fashionable Pets, encompassing all 29 puppy-selling pet stores in New Jersey. Investigators reported finding “humane issues” at every location. At least four stores, including Fashionable Pets, allegedly sourced dogs from breeders with documented Animal Welfare Act violations.
One cited instance involved Wayne Puppies LLC, which purchased a dog from Iowa breeder Judy Maassen. Maassen had been cited in 2014 for listing “gunshot in brain at close range” as a euthanasia method. Wayne Puppies owner Alexandra Hoffman expressed shock, stating she was required by the PPPA to keep Maassen listed as a breeder for two years after the last purchase, despite only buying one dog. Hoffman questioned the reliability of breeder USDA reports, highlighting the challenges pet stores face in ensuring ethical sourcing.
Industry Pushback and the Debate Over Solutions
The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council criticizes the Humane Society’s report as one-sided and promoting legislation aimed at shutting down pet stores. Council President Mike Bober argues the report focuses on minimum federal standards rather than addressing those standards directly. He advocates for improving breeding standards instead of banning retail dog sales.
The Humane Society counters that even legal breeding conditions can be inhumane. They petition the USDA to ban stacked cages, harmful wire flooring, and ensure daily exercise and human interaction for breeding dogs. Director Kathleen Summers argues that current guidelines allow for conditions that are detrimental to animal welfare.
Increased Scrutiny and Local Action
The investigation follows a recent controversy involving the Just Pups pet store chain in Paramus, where over 60 dogs were found unattended in a transport van. The incident sparked outrage and resulted in numerous charges against owner Vincent LoSacco. Fashionable Pets owner Anthony Kagan acknowledges the heightened awareness resulting from the Just Pups incident, viewing it as a positive development.
In response to these events, several New Jersey municipalities have introduced or passed ordinances restricting the sale of puppy mill dogs by imposing stricter standards on pet stores. The debate surrounding responsible pet sourcing continues, with the Humane Society’s report placing Fashionable Pets and other New Jersey pet stores under increased scrutiny.
