It is easy for business leaders to talk about doing the ethical thing in business, but it can be harder to put new practices into play in real life, especially when the business' bottom dollar is at stake. Some pet stores are opting to forgo the selling of puppies as part of an effort to end the market for puppy mill dogs.
It might seem at first glance as if a pet store refusing to sell puppies were missing an opportunity to increase profits; and a missed profit opportunity is something no store owner wants. A handful of pet stores, however, have stepped forward as examples of good business ethics and strong corporate social responsibility by saying "No" to puppy sales.
The stores are focusing instead on selling pet care supplies and on encouraging the adoption of shelter puppies and dogs.While puppy sales can amount to thousands of dollars profit each year for a pet store, only good things are expected by stores concerned with following ethical principles. To confirm the benefit of this approach one need only look to currently thriving pet supply industry leaders, such as PetCo and Pet Smart.
PetCo
PetCo's Think Adoption First program offers incentives for individuals choosing to adopt rather than buying a dog or cat. Think Adoption First participants receive 50% off of an initial pet food purchase, discounts on supplies through the PALS savings club, and monthly emails loaded with pet care tips and information. PetCo features in-store adoption events and offers the Pet-Finder Adoption service to connect potential pet owners with dogs and cats in need of homes.
Pet Smart
Pet Smart Charities, founded in 1994, have saved the lives over 4,750,390 animals as of November 21, 2011 through the company's People Saving Pets program. As the largest funding source of North American animal welfare efforts, Pet Smart Charities have given over $134 million to animal welfare programs. The company also offers an in-store adoption program to help place existing animals in loving homes rather helping to build the demand for puppy mill pets.
Jack's Pets
Jack's Pets of Ohio recently announced that puppies will no longer be sold in the store as part of this growing effort. Jack's business model will be narrowing its focus, making the shift away from selling puppieswhile continuing to provide high quality pet supplies and friendly service.
These pet care companies opting out of the puppy selling business have proven that it is possible for a pet care company to thrive economically while operating under a strong code of ethics.
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Laure Justice - Laure is a Topic Editor for Suite101, covering three topics. View her full profile for details and contact information.
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