By: Richard L. Smith
Eight New Jersey pet shops, including one in Newark, are facing more than $70,000 in fines after state investigators uncovered violations of the Pet Purchase Protection Act, according to Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin.
The Attorney General’s Office said unannounced inspections by the Division of Consumer Affairs revealed issues ranging from missing breeder and medical history on puppy cage labels to failing to properly display consumer rights notices.
Stores were also cited for not keeping accurate vaccination records or veterinary exam details, and one Hudson County shop was accused of buying puppies from unlicensed breeders.
Among those cited was Pet Crew Pet Shop in Newark, Essex County, which faces more than $8,500 in penalties and costs.
Other stores include Bergen Kennel Inc. d/b/a Mama’s and Papa’s Pet Shop (Englewood), Silver Nickel Puppies at Troy’s Trims & Treats (Englewood), Oh My Dog LLC (Kearny), Carmona Pet Shop Inc. (Union City), Pet Center Rescue Inc. d/b/a Pet Center (Old Bridge), and two Shake A Paw locations in Green Brook and Union.
“Discovering that a new pet has a debilitating health issue can be devastating, both emotionally and financially,” Attorney General Platkin said in announcing the penalties.
“New Jersey’s Pet Purchase Protection Act requires stores to provide prospective buyers with the information they need to ensure the animals were bred and maintained under healthy conditions.”
The total fines and costs for the eight stores add up to more than $75,000. Platkin emphasized that the state will continue to hold businesses accountable when they fail to protect both consumers and animals.