Court Bans Retail Sale of Dogs and Cats in Stores in Phoenix

This week, the United States District Court for the District of Arizona rejected a challenge to a City of Phoenix ordinance that bans the retail sale of dogs and cats in stores within the City of Phoenix unless the animals come from a shelter or nonprofit rescue group.

In a lengthy and detailed opinion, the court overruled the arguments of a Phoenix retail pet store that the ordinance violated the dormant commerce clause of the United States Constitution.

“The ruling is a great victory, not just for the City of Phoenix, but also for the Humane Society of the United States, which has worked tirelessly to help municipalities throughout the U.S. enact these laws (and defend challenges to them) to stem the trade of puppy and kitten mill animals and decrease animal euthanasia and overpopulation,” said Maureen Beyers, one of the Osborn Maledon attorneys who represented the Humane Society as part of its pro bono program.

In addition to Beyers, Brandon Hale and Eric Fraser comprised the Osborn Maledon team.