Reps. McNally, Grim Announce Two New Bills Focused on Pet Stores, Pet Financing

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Lauren McNally (D-Youngstown) and Michele Grim (D-Toledo) today introduced two new bills that focus on pet stores and pet financing. Together, these bills are trying to end bad practices that are prevalent in pet stores across Ohio, specifically prohibiting loans to purchase and restoring local governmental authority to regulate the sale of dogs.   

“With the holidays coming up, I think that these two pieces of legislation are very relevant. If a parent wants to give their child a pet for Christmas, or if someone has just been wanting a pet for a while now, it is an important responsibility. There are some ethical and financial landmines that people will need to navigate, and I am happy we can bring attention to some predatory practices. Every animal deserves a home and getting an animal should not become a financial burden,” said Rep. McNally.

“These practices are harmful to dogs and to the families who love them. The General Assembly should do more to empower Ohioans to make responsible choices when welcoming a pet. Puppy mills and predatory financing fail our animals and our communities,” said Rep. Grim.

The first bill will prohibit loans specifically to purchase dogs and cats. It will amend the Revised Code to prohibit retailers from making a retail installment for the purchase of a dog or cat and prohibit lenders from making a loan for the purchase or lease of a dog or cat. There are often predatory financing options for people who want to buy a dog or a cat but cannot afford an expensive breed. These loans have extremely high interest rates and hidden fees.  At least 28 puppy stores in the state and several large online brokers that ship puppies to in-state customers offer financing through third party lenders that many would consider predatory. Many puppy store consumer complaints mention financing, with interest rates up to 153% and many claiming they were deceived by sales staff and rushed through paperwork. Dogs and cats can still be bought with a credit card.

The second bill will repeal current law that diminishes the authority of local governments to regulate the sale of dogs. Currently the authority is in the hands of the state. This will allow local communities to decide whether or not puppies can be sold locally in pet stores. Many people find this practice cruel and irresponsible; many puppies are not cared for properly, are exposed to disease, and come from puppy mills. This legislation would still allow for local animal shelters and rescues to host adoption events at pet stores in their communities.

Both of these bills are awaiting a bill number and a House committee assignment.