Starting Dec. 15, a new law will ban the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits at pet stores across New York. The Puppy Mill Pipeline Law is designed to cut ties with large-scale breeders accused of keeping animals in poor conditions.

While the law aims to address animal welfare, not everyone supports it.

James Earle, owner of Crosby Pet Center in Pelham Bay, says the law could force his family-run business to shut down.

“Well, it’s not a fair law,” Earle said.

Earle explained that his shop follows strict guidelines.

“All the pups we get are from USDA-licensed breeders. They’re all checked, regulated, inspected,” he said.

Despite his objections, Earle, says he’ll comply with the law but worries about the impact on his shop and employees.

“We provide jobs. If you take that away from us, you’re going to put people in stores out of business,” he said.

The law allows pet stores to partner with shelters for adoptions instead, but for many stores, that means an uncertain future.

Advocates encourage families to adopt pets from shelters or buy from licensed breeders. Meanwhile, customers like Steven Waters praise Crosby Pet Center for its care and professionalism.

“This is a perfect place to showcase them. They’re well taken care of,” Waters said. “Look what they did. They did a good job on Squeaky, my dog,” said Waters

Pet shop owners could face fines of $1,000 per violation if they don’t comply.

Earle says his shop, which has been a staple in the community for over 20 years, is holding onto hope that the law might be overturned.