To the editor,
Re: Restricting sales of pets isn’t the city’s business, Aug. 10.
I am writing this letter to educate those of you who don’t believe families should share in the experience of the purchase of a new cat or dog from the pet store. My family has four rescue cats, none of which I chose to have, but circumstances for these animals required a home with a heart. However, wanting to make a purchase of an animal had us far more prepared and informed than just going to the SPCA or bringing home an animal.
Paws n Jaws staff questioned me for months of what type of dog I may want, fitting my family lifestyle to an animal that will adapt well. Paws and Jaws take pride in their animals and care about what kind of home the dogs are going to. I continue to come back to the store and share stories or ask questions and the staff are always giving me advice.
Meanwhile, the SPCA wants to make the choice for every local family, on the bias that some are unable to take care of their animals?
I think it would be in the best interest of the SPCA to work with Paws n Jaws instead of choosing to take a path that may require other families to purchase elsewhere such as reserves or puppy mills. At least Paws n Jaws can keep track of where their animals came from.
I also think that there needs to be a policy that the SPCA works with all pet stores. Battling your own community might help change a few rules, but it’s working together as one that will make the difference.
Tamara Gilbeau, Nanaimo