Will Texas’s Anti Puppy Mill Bill Pass?

April 10, 2025 – ​In the 89th Texas Legislative Session, which began on January 14, 2025, the Texas Humane Legislation Network (THLN) has prioritized the passage of the Ethical Pet Sales Bill. This proposed legislation aims to prohibit retail pet stores from selling commercially bred puppies and kittens, a measure intended to curb the influx of animals from large-scale, out-of-state breeding facilities commonly known as puppy mills.

The bill seeks to address concerns about the health and welfare of animals sourced from such facilities, as these puppies and kittens often arrive at pet stores with health issues due to inadequate breeding practices and long-distance transportation. By banning the retail sale of these animals, the legislation aims to protect consumers from unknowingly purchasing sick pets and to promote the adoption of animals from shelters and rescue organizations.

This initiative builds upon local ordinances already enacted in 18 Texas cities, including Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio, which have implemented similar bans on the retail sale of puppies and kittens. The proposed statewide legislation seeks to create uniformity across Texas and prevent the opening of new pet stores that source animals from inhumane breeding operations.

Advocates of the bill emphasize its potential to disrupt the “puppy mill pipeline” into Texas, thereby improving animal welfare standards and safeguarding consumers from deceptive sales practices and unforeseen veterinary expenses. The THLN encourages Texans to support this legislation to ensure better protection for both animals and pet owners across the state.