Photo: JEWEL SAMAD / AFP / Getty Images
The city of West Hollywood has officially adopted Ordinance No. 25-21, which bans the retail sales of nearly all live animals in pet stores. This decision, finalized by city councilmembers in late August, expands on an existing ban on the sale of dogs and cats that has been in place since 2010. According to the West Hollywood Municipal Code Chapter 9.50.020, pet stores within the city limits are prohibited from displaying, selling, delivering, or otherwise transferring dogs or cats.
The new ordinance extends this ban to include amphibians, arachnids, birds, fish, hermit crabs, mammals such as rodents and rabbits, and reptiles. The only pet store affected by this change is the Petco on North Doheny Drive, which currently sells hamsters, guinea pigs, and occasionally fish. Stores have until May 1, 2026, to comply with the updated ordinance.
Animal advocates have praised the expanded ban. PETA president Tracy Reiman stated, "West Hollywood has taken a stand against an abusive industry that sees thinking, feeling beings as nothing more than commodities and condemns them to a lifetime of misery." Reiman also commended Mayor Chelsea Byers and the City Council for enacting this law and urged other cities to follow suit.
In addition to the ban on live animal sales, West Hollywood also prohibits the sale of fur apparel products, which includes any clothing or garment made from the pelt or skin of animals with fur attached.
The ordinance reflects the city's ongoing commitment to animal welfare and sets a precedent for other municipalities considering similar measures.