SPAR says no more live puppies will be sold at their Pet Storey store

Following the article published on Business Report earlier on Friday, under fire retail group, SPAR, has backtracked on the selling of live puppies at their affiliate store, Pet Storey. 

Responding to further questions sent by Business Report to the SPAR group, Rob Philipson, Business Development Executive at The SPAR Group, said, "This is the only Pet Storey location where a​ limited number of puppies were available, and this model will not be replicated in this or any future store. Pet Storey remains primarily a specialised pet product retailer and franchisor, focused on safe, responsible, and accessible pet care."

This comes after a photographer hired by the retailer posted a video on social media app, TikTok, showcasing the new store and puppies being sold there.

The video has since been removed from the users profile. 

"We are aware of concerns regarding the sale of puppies in the new Pet Storey store launched last night. This is a legacy issue linked to the store’s previous operations, which we inherited as part of the transition process. We want to be absolutely clear: it is not part of our business model to sell dogs or cats. Our intention is to ensure that the puppies and kitten currently in the store are responsibly, safely and permanently rehomed with loving and caring families, while we complete the final transition. Animal welfare is a priority for us, and we are committed to handling this matter with care, compassion, and transparency," Philipson said. 

SPAR 'deeply committed to animal welfare'

Philipson further added that the retailer is committed to animal welfare. 

"SPAR and Pet Storey are deeply committed to animal welfare. While this is the only store that has had live puppies, all future Pet Storey stores will focus solely on pet products and services, with no live dogs or cats. We are actively exploring and supporting adoption drives and rescue partnerships in collaboration with welfare organisations to help pets find safe, loving homes," he told Business Report.

The TikTok video that caused the uproar surrounding the matter was not commissioned by the retailer.

"The individual is an independent service provider contracted by SPAR for photography services. The video was posted in his personal capacity and was not commissioned by SPAR. We are aware of the video, which highlighted the positive launch story, but cannot comment on the individual user’s account settings," Philipson said. 

Back in 2022, when one of the largest retailers in South Africa, the Shoprite Group, expanded their pet offering with PetShop Science, they estimated the pet sector to be worth R7 billion. 

"Pet Storey remains primarily a specialised pet product retailer and franchisor, focused on safe, responsible, and accessible pet care, products, services. We will, however, continue to offer a carefully curated selection of reptiles, birds, fish, and invertebrates. These animals fall within our broader retail model and are supported by strict welfare standards, staff training, and responsible care guidelines," Philipson added.

He further said that the Pet Storey concept was developed to meet evolving consumer needs by providing quality pet products at affordable prices, while fostering a space where customers can learn, engage, and embrace the joy of responsible pet ownership.

"At the same time, it creates opportunities for entrepreneurs, suppliers, and local communities," he said.

"The SPAR Group’s broader pet retail strategy is focused on creating an unrivalled experience for pets and their parents, with animal welfare at the heart of everything we do. Our aim is to create an environment where customers can learn, engage, and experience the joy of responsible pet ownership," Philipson said.

"We recognise the sensitivities around this and want to assure the public that robust welfare protocols are in place to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of every animal in our care. Guided by transparency, accountability, and our corporate social responsibility values, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical animal treatment," Philipson further added.

BUSINESS REPORT