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New state law bans retail sale of some household pets

Any pet stores that are still selling kittens, puppies, and rabbits risk penalties of up to $1,000 per violation.

BUFFALO, N.Y. — A new state law involving pet shops went into effect Sunday.

The Puppy Mill Pipeline Act bans the retail sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits. Stores that violate the ban face a fine of up to $1,000 per violation.

RELATED: Pet stores close from state wide ban on retail sales puppies, kittens, and rabbits

A group of pet breeders have filed a lawsuit against the state to block the legislation, arguing they follow all rules regarding pet breeding and say it could put them out of business.

Supporters of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act say it will prevent animal abuse.

2 On Your Side recently spoke with Gina Lattuca, chief communications officer of the SPCA Serving Erie County, about warning signs you should look for when purchasing a dog in particular.

"For instance, if somebody says I will meet you in a parking lot of a local establishment with the puppy and that you don't want to come all the way out to my house because it's so far away," she said. 

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