Puppy Sales at Auxerre Expo Draw Fire from Animal welfare Group
Auxerre, France – A recent animal expo at Auxerrexpo is facing criticism from the animal welfare association PAZ (Protection Animale Zone), which alleges the event fosters impulsive pet purchases contributing to France’s high rate of animal abandonment. The institution claims vendors are circumventing regulations designed to ensure prospective owners have adequate time for consideration.
France leads Europe in animal abandonment, with an estimated 203,000 animals discarded in 2024 alone. PAZ argues that events like the Auxerre expo exacerbate the problem by creating an environment ripe for spontaneous decisions,often leading to animals being relinquished when owners are unprepared for the long-term commitment. The dispute highlights a growing tension between commercial animal sales and animal welfare concerns, prompting calls for stricter oversight of pet expos.
“A person arrives at the salon, sees a ridiculously cute puppy, and then acquires it, takes it home-except impulsive buys can lead to numerous abandonments,” explained Elodie, a PAZ representative in Auxerre. She specifically criticized the practice of “antidating” certificats d’engagement et de connaissance - certificates of commitment and knowledge – a document intended to ensure a seven-day reflection period before an animal is sold.
The certificate is meant to be a minimum safeguard, but PAZ alleges its purpose is undermined when vendors falsely represent the date of signing.
Auxerrexpo director Sébastien Fuentes defended the event, stating, “Regarding the welfare of the animals, there is actually a veterinary service present that validates the acceptance of the animals into this salon. And then the cooling-off period is important to allow people to really think about their choice.”
Fuentes expressed regret over a lack of communication between PAZ and the salon organizers, suggesting dialog would be a more constructive approach. “I understand the cause, it’s critically important to raise alerts about abuses, but I think there are other methods, namely dialogue, to try to understand the values of this type of salon.”
PAZ maintains it will continue to monitor such events and advocate for stronger enforcement of existing regulations to protect animals from impulsive purchases and subsequent abandonment.
