A proposal to ban the sale of cats, dogs, rabbits and chickens that are bred by animal “mills” will be before the Los Angeles City Council tomorrow.

The motion, from Councilman Paul Koretz, states: “These mills are medium- and large-sized  ’factory farms’ where breeders have been known to produce hundreds or thousands of puppies and kittens annually under conditions that lend themselves to a variety of abuses, from straightforward cruelty to inbreeding and abuse-inspired health and personality issues.”

Restricting the sale of animals in pet stores, however, is opposed by the California Federation of Dog Clubs. In a letter to the council, the federation’s secretary wrote, “The vast majority of pet store customers are very happy with their pets. A sales ban would only hurt legitimate businesses and responsible, regulated breeders, not substandard facilities. Pet stores are a legitimate source for healthy, well-bred animals.”

As part of tomorrow’s discussion, Animal Services reps are expected to discuss the possibility of making animals in city shelters available for adoption via pet stores.

The issue is #35 on the Los Angeles City Council agenda.