I am very concerned for the dogs and cats who are sold in "pet stores."  First, it is upsetting to see animals purposely bred for sale in a retail environment (or anywhere) due to the likely impulsive nature of the purchase of these vulnerable lives. Also, to breed dogs and cats when thousands are euthanized every day in non-profit shelters due to space constraints is simply unconscionable. I dream of a day when animals will not be sold in pet stores. Until dogs and cats (and other animals) are not sold in pet shops, the very least we can and should do is protect them from neglect and abuse by amending and requiring stronger standards of care in pet shops and meaningful penalties for animal welfare violations.  As a taxpayer and life-long Virginia resident, I implore the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to protect the welfare of animals with amended regulations that will require stronger standards of care without exception.

I thank you in advance for your prompt and compassionate action.