Some pet shops in the Bronx are a little quieter since the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act went into effect in December of 2024.

The act prohibits the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits.

Whole Pets Market owner, Marisol Rodriguez, says the sting of the changes can still be still felt, as Pelham Parkway customers looking for their new furry friend are now forced to look elsewhere.

"We have kids that come into the store for the very first time and they're like imagining they going to get this pet," says Marisol. "Now they go into the store, and they realize that they're banned there, that we can no longer sell them in the store."

Marisol is one of few Bronx retail pet shops and small business left in the Bronx, a fact not lost among other owners in the borough.

"A couple of years ago, there were five to ten pet shops in the area," says Anthony Milazzo, owner of Cross Bronx Pet Shop. "Now there's only three or four that people can turn into. With less customers in the shop, businesses have been forced to close their doors.

"A lot of them are closing down because they can't keep up with everything that they have to pay," says Marisol. "The rent, the insurance, the salaries, the cost of labor - it's just a lot."

City Council has introduced an additional bill that would prevent retail pet shops from selling birds, which presents a new challenge, as of June 30.

"The ban doesn't make it easy, and now they're talking about taking the birds away from us too - so what are we going to sell for the people?" Milazzo questioned while shrugging. It's tough!"

As shop owners continue to adapt to the changes, Gov. Kathy Hochul says the ban is here to stay, as a "meaningful step to cut down on harsh treatment ... and protect the welfare of animals across the state."

Anyone still looking to buy a dog, cat or rabbit is advised to contact their local pet adoption centers, shelters and rescues.