Protesters gather outside pet store

Donna Baxter
For the News-Leader

Representatives from several local animal groups carried pickets Saturday in front of Pet Warehouse on Independence Avenue.

Passersby honked and gave the protesters thumbs-up signs as the group carried placards reading "Boycott Pet Warehouse" and "Pet Warehouse's 'Private Breeders' = Puppy Mills."Organizer Cheri Crane, of Republic, said the protesters were opposing the sale of puppies that have been purchased from large breeding facilities.

"A reputable breeder would never sell puppies in a pet store as they would want to know the type of home they were placing their puppies in and make sure the new owners had sufficient information about the breed," said Crane.

"We ask that Pet Warehouse stop the sale of puppies and instead work with breed rescue groups and shelters to help end the homeless pet overpopulation problem in our area."

Bill Lingenfelser, manager of the store, would not comment for the media gathered at the site, but he released a statement that read in part:

"Pet Warehouse promotes responsible pet ownership. We provide necessary nutrition, attention and care to our pets and ensure proper veterinary care as needed."

While not directly addressing the protesters' claims that it purchases some of its animals from "puppy mills," the company's statement stressed that "Pet Warehouse complies fully with all USDA regulations regarding animal care."