A Perfect Parisian Pal
We've all seen those cute puppies bouncing around playfully at the Champ de Mars, felt that pang of longing and wondered just how we could get our paws on one such furry friend. Well, whether you're a cat person, dog person or just prefer the simple companionship of a fish, this comprehensive guide will give you all the info you need to find that unconditional love you've been craving in Paris.
Before diving into the specifics of where to get dogs, cats and other companions, there are several important legal aspects to keep in mind. First, ensure that you are allowed to have a pet in your apartment by asking your landlord, agent, and/or roommates—for tenants of Comforts of Home apartments, animals are strictly not allowed. Secondly, animal insurance is necessary to receive a European Pet Passport so your companion doesn't get stuck in a mandatory quarantine if you decide to travel with him/her.
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Dogs
The most immediate thought that might come to mind is to find a pet store that sells those cute, little puppies. In Paris—and around the world—this isn't a good idea. These animaleries—pet stores—can be found in Paris along the Quai de la Mégisserie in the 1st arrondissement if you want to take a look, but according to the organization, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), these types of pet stores treat their puppies terribly. Not only this, but most of their "stock" comes from puppy mills, where a mother and her litter are treated with indignity and are kept in often unsanitary, detestable conditions.
It is advised by many non-profit organizations such as PETA and the French Société Protectrice des Animaux (SPA) to instead adopt or find a reputable breeder. Older dogs and rescue dogs are often never given a second chance despite being perfectly healthy and good, loyal, loving companions. One of the best websites to adopt a dog within France is agirpourladoption.fr, where you can search by region, breed of dog, sex and size. There is also a wide variety of information and articles about caring for your pooch. If you'd rather buy a puppy from a breeder, the international brand Royal Canin(e) hosts a website for this very purpose: achetermonchien.com.
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Cats
Despite being a completely different species, the situation is much the same with cats. Adopting or finding a reputable breeder is the best bet for securing a feline friend. The SPA hosts a website that allows for you to search for cats—as well as other species of domestic animals—to adopt from their refuges. If adoption isn't your cup of tea, you can similarly find a reputable breeder through Royal Canin(e) at achetermonchat.com. While cats might seem like a safer bet to buy from a pet store since a "kitten mill" doesn't sound like a real situation, it is also very much a reality. Therefore, stick to the same guidelines and ensure that you know you're supporting not only a sustainable and compassionate organization, but also receiving a companion that is best for you.
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Fish
Now you're most definitely thinking that there is no way in hell there are "fish mills." You'd be correct. Instead, pet stores buy fish from people who harvest them directly out of their environment and, in the case of tropical fish, poison coral reefs with cyanide. PETA heavily advises against buying and keeping fish, but if you believe you can provide the adequate aquarium space, then there are a few animaleries in Paris you can head to. Animalis in Bercy Village—the 20th arrondissement of Paris—sells a wide variety of fish and the supplies needed to care for them. The Oisellerie du Pont Neuf also has a substantial collection of supplies and fish (be aware that they do sell dogs and cats as well). If you also desire to buy a reptile, this same animalerie boasts a selection of terrariums and all the supplies you need.
