LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — A Louisville pet store has closed its doors after a judge ruled it violated a city ordinance banning the retail sale of pets.
Puppygram, located in east Louisville, is temporarily closed as it appeals the decision. A sign on the store’s door confirms the closure, though the company’s CEO says the shutdown is not permanent.
The ordinance, passed by the Louisville Metro Council, aims to curb the sale of animals from so-called “puppy mills” by prohibiting pet sales in retail stores. The law is intended to protect both animals and consumers, following reports of puppies developing serious health issues shortly after purchase.
“Imagine if it was your puppy and it got sick, and you didn’t know why,” said Todd Blevins, Kentucky State Director for Humane World for Animals. “Then upon investigation, you learn that it is because of this shady industry.”
April Gilmore, who purchased a puppy from Puppygram in 2022, said her dog became ill soon after coming home. She later discovered what she described as forged vaccination records.
“There was a list of all the vaccines, and some of the dates were in the future,” Gilmore said. “She couldn’t have gotten those shots yet.”
Despite multiple attempts to reach the store, including phone calls and in-person visits, WDRB News was unable to confirm the store’s long-term plans. A store employee told a reporter the location is “permanently closed,” though CEO Miles Handy maintains the closure is temporary.
“We are appealing — it’s in the court of appeals,” Handy said. “We had no puppy mills. We don’t believe in puppy mills.”
Handy said the store had only a few dogs at the time of closure and no cats. He declined to specify where the animals were relocated.
Gilmore, who has been vocal about her experience, said she was relieved by the court’s decision.
“It’s not (true),” she said of the store’s denial of wrongdoing. “It’s a lie. So, I was happy to get them shut down.”
The case remains under appeal.
Humane World for Animals does accept complaints about pet stores. For more information, click here.
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