Partners Pet Center, a Round Rock pet store located at 1701 S. Mays St., has recently come under fire due to a Facebook post alleging animal mistreatment. The post, which included pictures of puppies in cages without bedding or toys, sparked outrage and calls to ban pet sales in Round Rock stores. Owner Adam Wiste denies the allegations and says he’s received death threats since the post went viral.
City Officials Respond to Complaints about Partners Pet Center
The city of Round Rock has received 18 welfare complaints about Partners Pet Center, with half submitted since the controversial Facebook post. Despite the complaints, the city has never cited the store for violating Round Rock’s animal welfare codes, according to city spokesman Will Hampton. Hampton confirmed the city is aware of the community’s concerns and plans to address them with the City Council. He added that the city has been in contact with representatives of groups concerned about pet sales at Partners Pet Center.
USDA Inspections Show Compliance at Partners Pet Center
Partners Pet Center is subject to inspections by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) because it breeds certain animals for sale. Spokeswoman Tanya Espinosa confirmed that January and May inspection reports indicated the store complied with the humane care and treatment standards outlined in the Animal Welfare Act. These reports provide a contrasting perspective to the allegations circulating online.
Facebook Post Ignites Controversy Surrounding Pet Store Practices
The author of the Facebook post, Zack Ryan, could not be reached for comment. His post detailed concerns about puppies housed in cages with wire floors, empty food bowls, and water provided only through bottles. Ryan also mentioned a one-eyed ferret for sale, urging the store owner to collaborate with animal shelters and foster groups instead of selling animals.
Differing Views on Pet Sales in Round Rock and Austin
While selling animals at pet stores is legal in Round Rock, it’s prohibited in the neighboring city of Austin. This difference in policy highlights the ongoing debate surrounding animal welfare and the ethics of pet sales. The Humane Society of the United States State Director Katie Jarl issued a statement supporting the community’s call for change and expressing a desire to work with Round Rock officials to address the issue.
Partners Pet Center Owner Responds to Allegations
Wiste, who has owned and operated Partners Pet Center since 1999, expressed shock at the accusations. He explained that the puppies are kept in cages with rubber-coated wire floors to prevent discomfort, fed twice daily, and given water bottles to avoid spills. He said towels are used instead of bedding to prevent choking hazards. Wiste added that the puppies have a designated play area for exercise. Regarding the one-eyed ferret, Wiste stated it was born with the condition, was healthy, and has since been sold.
Public Outcry Fuels Online Campaign Against Puppy Sales
A Facebook page titled “End puppy sales in Round Rock” has quickly gained over 6,000 likes since its creation, demonstrating significant public concern and a growing movement to potentially change local ordinances regarding pet sales. The incident at Partners Pet Center has ignited a broader conversation about animal welfare in the community.
