(CHILLICOTHE, OHIO – August 5) -- In response to a recent incident regarding the horrific mistreatment of rabbits at the Petland store in Akron, Ohio, Petland, Inc. has terminated the store owner's franchise agreement. Effective immediately the store is closed and will not be reopened. The animals will be immediately removed from store located in the Chapel Hill Mall, which was individually owned and operated by a local franchisee.

Petland will in no way, shape or form tolerate any abuse of animals in its care. We are outraged of this gross violation of Petland's animal care standards.

The investigation is now in the hands of local law enforcement and charges have been filed against the employee.

Petland policy demands that medical treatment and protocol is to be provided and determined by the store's consulting veterinarian and not be undertaken by an employee. Petland policy also dictates that no animal be euthanized in ANY manner by any staff member.

Petland will take any and all action necessary as this does not, in any way, represent the culture and dedication to animals of the thousands of professional Petland employees who provide extraordinary care every day across the country.

Media inquiries should be directed to Petland’s corporate office, at (740) 775-2464.