The recent threats and vandalism directed towards a pet store in Okotoks, has gotten a lot of folks around the Foothills talking.

Are pet stores like Animal House treating animals as business inventory, neglecting the animals care? Or are they truly hoping to provide a good home for animals in need?

As over half of Canadians are pet owners, its a topic that hits close to home.

Kim Hessel, Founder of the Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue, says there are two sides to every debate.

"If what Mr. Marshall says is true, and his staff are being harassed, that is very unprofessional and very uncalled for. That aside, there has been a number of issues with some of the animals coming out of Animal House, and that's an important realization for people to be aware of as well, certainly when they are looking to purchase any animal."

Hessel says that when animals are treated like inventory, their care almost always takes a back seat.

"There is a ton of money to be made when you are selling and breeding that many animals, and I think that's what it ultimately comes down to. As much as it's nice to write the words we just want to see every family have a lovely, happy, healthy pet', I do believe it's about money."

In light of the threats, Animal House has decided to close their doors, and whether this is a loss or gain for the community is all part of the debate.