The Chicago City Council voted to ban sales of so-called "puppy mill" dogs in pet stores. The measure also bans sales of cats and rabbits from large scale breeding operations. All animals sold in pet stores will need to be from government pounds, rescue operations, or humane societies. Critics of large scale breeding operations say the practice often results in mistreatment of the animals and contributes to animal overpopulation.

Some pet store owners say the measure fails to distinguish between breeders who are reputable and those who aren't, but animal rescue groups say the measure will save thousands of animal lives. In a statement, an official from the Humane Society of the United States said the ordinance is "a step forward for the humane economy that will help end the euthanasia of thousands of dogs and cats every year in Chicago." Chicago pet stores have on year to comply with the new ordinance.