Famous brand stops 'ethically problematic' industry trend. Is this new policy a massive step for progress?

Seniors have seen many changes in retail spaces over the decades.

These changes range from minor policies to even the most game-changing rules that have shaped Australia to this day.

One of Australia's largest retailers announced a sweeping new policy that could affect animal lovers nationwide.


If you've ever wandered into your local pet shop looking forward to seeing budgies, guinea pigs, or even a tankful of goldfish, you should brace yourself for a significant change.

Pet brand PetO announced a complete ban on the sale of live animals in all of its stores.

That means no more puppies, kittens, rabbits, birds, or fish for sale at PetO's stores across New South Wales, the ACT, Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland, and Tasmania.

The move, which they started rolling out last month, is now in full effect.


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PetO dubs itself as 'Australia's largest dog and cat store'. Image Credit: Instagram/PetO


PetO's new policy could mark a significant shift in how Aussies will find their next animal buddy.

The store's new policy has been seen as a bold move in the industry, and PetO hoped it would set a new standard.

According to a PetO spokesperson, the decision was not made lightly.

'The transport, storage and sale of live animals in pet shops is ethically problematic and can lend itself to issues relating to animal welfare as well as irresponsible ownership of pets,' the spokesperson explained.

In other words, the company is taking a stand against the mistreatment and neglect that sometimes occur when animals are treated as commodities.


Of course, such a dramatic change isn't without its challenges.

PetO admitted that the decision should have a short-term impact on their bottom line.

However, they are confident that it will pay off sooner or later.

'The decision to stop the sale of live animals will impact PetO in the short term but have long-term commercial benefits that will help the business reach its goal of a projected $250 million in annual revenue by 2028,' a PetO spokesperson added.

PetO believed that customers would support a business that would put animal welfare first.

This was not the first time PetO made headlines for its ambitious growth.

Last year, the company acquired 41 retail outlets and 25 veterinary clinics previously owned by Petstock and Woolworths.

This acquisition helped PetO's expansion from 17 to 58 stores nationwide.


With this new policy, PetO has positioned itself as a leader in responsible pet retailing.

If you're in the market for a new pet, you might be wondering where this policy could leave you.

While you won't be able to pick up a new companion at PetO anymore, the company will still offer pet supplies such as food and accessories.

Pet lovers may still find their next furry pal from reputable breeders, rescue organisations, and shelters.

By removing the option to buy pets, PetO has encouraged would-be pet owners to think carefully about their decision and consider adopting a pet instead.

PetO's decision was part of a growing trend towards more ethical treatment of animals worldwide.

Many animal welfare advocates emphasised that selling live animals in pet shops contribute to overbreeding, impulse purchases, and high abandonment rates.

PetO's new policy sends a clear message: pets are not products but are living beings that deserve respect, care, and a lifelong commitment.
Key Takeaways

  • Australian pet retailer PetO has banned the sale of live animals across all its stores.
  • The change, phased in since May, aimed to set new ethical standards for pet shops and should encourage the industry to do the same.
  • PetO stated that selling live animals has raised ethical concerns about animal welfare and could contribute to irresponsible pet ownership.
  • Despite expecting a short-term impact, PetO believed the decision would lead to long-term commercial benefits.
What do you think about PetO's new policy? Should other pet shops follow suit? Share your thoughts about this massive change in the comments section below.
 

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I believe it is definately a decision in the right direction. All pets should be registered, whether they are a cat, dog, guinea pig, budgie or even a fish. Each pet is a living being and should be respected and cared for in a civil and humane manner.
Too many parents purchase pets just to stop their children from throwing tantrums, or because the parent thinks that the child might like a pet for their birthday.
People are also buying pets not knowing how to respect and properly care for them, keep them clean or recognise signs that show the pet needs to go to a vet.
There are so many pets at Lort Smith Adoption Centre that are waiting for a safe and caring home who will bring so much happiness and joy to the person adopting the pet.
Pets can provide so much companionship and are also said to provide healing and calmness to the pet owner.
By having the pet registered, immunized, desexed and shown how to care for the pet, by staff at Lort Smith Adoption Centre, the pet owner can go home with their chosen pet dog or cat, with the correct knowledge of how to care, feed and properly look after their adorable pet. 🙏🦋
 
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This may lead to animals being dumped instead of taken to pet shops to be sold.

There isn't many animal shelters you have to have a vehicle.
 
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I thought NSW made it illegal to sell kittens, puppies, rabbits etc in pet shops years ago. Have to admit that when my kids were little ( almost 40yrs) any visit to the shopping centre had to include a visit to the pet shop for a pat of whatever animals were there. Also I have to admit that I loved it as much as they did.
I know another of those “political incorrect “ things us oldies indulged in! What can I say ?! Honestly don’t regret any of them!!
 
Have you seen the prices pet shops charge for dogs and cats ! So much better to get a pet from one of the many rescue places such as the RSPCA. They are vaccinated and desexed already and often they have been surrendered by old people who can’t look after them any more or they have been abandoned by people who don’t care what happens to them !
 
Unfortunately, I wish they were mine. I can barely manage my furbaby Lacey nowadays. 💜 💜 💜
View attachment 76235
Dear member mOiOz, how so beautiful and sweet Lacey is. Just by looking how content she is, tells us that you are indeed a wonderful and caring owner of this gorgeous little princess. God bless her and you with precious companionship for each other always. Interestingly, the name Lacey has a latin origin meaning * cheerful * and retains its association with * elegance *. Meaning located on internet under definition of the name Lacey. God bless, 🙏🦋
 
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So the reason is it's 'aimed to set new ethical standards for pet shops'. I find that a bit hypocritical. They are willing to sell/make a profit from pet food and accessories to pet owners who's pet hasn't come from a shelter. Wonder if these pet shops will start quizzing pet owners.
 
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