The pet retail industry is associated with puppy mills, sick animals, and impulse purchases that lead to high abandonment rates.
Animals in pet stores suffer from small enclosures, excessive handling, disease transmission from multi-animal displays, and the stress of constant sensory stimulation from customers. Puppies from commercial breeders endure poor socialization that causes lasting behavioral problems. High-volume sellers prioritize throughput over welfare, resulting in chronically stressed animals who suffer throughout their time in stores.