Los Angeles cracks down on sales of animals

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Today on Main Street, German shepherds, chihuahuas and cockapoos alike are sniffing out a new ordinance that will make the selling and buying of animals on streets illegal. Kim Sill, with the Bark Avenue Foundation, joined Councilmember Jan Perry to publicize the ordinance. As she held a dog sporting a mohawk, she explained why the ordinance is needed.

"In downtown L.A., it's not uncommon to see people with boxes of puppies with bunnies, with birds, and especially in the Fashion District, where it's become quite prevalent," she said.

Councilmember Jan Perry says this is a measure that must be taken. It will discourage the selling of animals who are taken from their mothers too early and not vaccinated.

"LAPD can enforce it, animal control officers can enforce it, and the public can bring it to our attention," she said. "If they see this happening anywhere, they should definitely report it."

If caught, both the seller and buyer will be charged a hefty fine.

Los Angeles animal lovers can breathe a little easier after Sept. 25, when the ordinance goes into effect.