In the wake of some pretty terrible animal treatment news lately, a positive change has sprouted in Phoenix, Arizona.

Last week a federal judge mandated a city law that will now require all pet stores to stock only dogs from shelters, putting an end to “puppy mills” and the over breeding of puppies for pet stores.

“We have so many dogs in Arizona that need homes, we don’t need to import them,” Phoenix City Councilwoman Thelda Williams told the Arizona Republic. With an estimated 23,000 dogs sold in pet stores each year in Phoenix, shelter dogs struggle to be adopted for sometimes even years. Hopefully this will aid in that wait time and end overcrowding in area shelters.

Phoenix is one of about 60 cities to pass a law ending the use of puppy mills, encouraging pet owners to give forever homes to shelter dogs and puppies of reputable breeders.

There is a new hope for our four legged friends out in the desert and I sure hope that more cities plan to follow suit. It is a small victory for animal activists and rescue facilities, but one that will impact the lives of countless animals. Way to go Arizona!