According to official reports, the San Francisco Commission of Animal Control and Welfare is considering banning the retail sale of all "companion animals" except fish.

The San Francisco Chronicle has reported that San Franciscans would still be able to own pets if the proposal becomes law. But they would have to seek an out-of-town store, go to a shelter or rescue organization, or arrange a private purchase.

It has also been reported that the commission was scheduled to hold a hearing on the ordinance on Thursday. It would have to be approved by the Board of Supervisors.

Chairwoman Sally Stephens told the Chronicle, "People buy small animals all the time as an impulse buy, don't know what they're getting into, and the animals end up at the shelter and often are euthanized. That's what we'd like to stop."

Pet store owners and managers are not happy. Pet Central has been selling animals in the city for three decades.

John Chan, the manager, said, "It's terrible. A pet store that can't sell pets? It's ridiculous. We'd have to close." (With Inputs from Agencies)