Governor Kathy Hochul yesterday signed a law prohibiting the sale of dogs, cats,And rabbits in retail pet stores, with the goal of ending the pipeline from puppy mills to pet stores and putting an end to abusive breeders. On the basis of an agreement, the legislation will come into force in 2024 and will also allow pet stores to charge shelters rent to use their space for adoptions.
“New York’s dogs, cats and rabbits deserve loving homes and humane treatment,” said Governor Hochul. “I am proud to sign this legislation, which will take meaningful action to reduce animal abuse and protect the welfare of animals across the state.” »
THEPuppy Mill Pipelines Act (S.1130/A.4283) aims to prevent the buying and selling of animals from large-scale abusive breeders who lack proper veterinary care, food or socialization. Often these animals have health problems resulting from poor husbandry and can cost families thousands of dollars in veterinary care. The legislation will continue to allow pet stores to host adoption services in conjunction with animal shelters or rescue organizations to help connect New Yorkers with animals in need of homes.
“Today is a great day for our four-legged friends and a big step forward in our fight against abusive and inhumane puppy mills. My thanks to Governor Hochul for standing up for the loving and voiceless animals who are members of our families and deserve the respect we showed them today,” said State Sen. Michael Gianaris.
“I send a huge thank you to Governor Hochul for signing this law to close the puppy mill pipeline. New York State will no longer allow brutally inhumane puppy mills across the country to supply our pet stores and profit off animal cruelty and unsuspecting consumers,” said Member of the Assembly Linda B. Rosenthal. “By ending the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits in pet stores, shelters and rescues will be able to partner with these stores to introduce adoptable animals and place them in forever homes.”
“Countless families will not have the heartache of spending thousands of dollars on a beloved, genetically damaged, chronically ill new pet. “New York’s role as a leader in preventing animal cruelty will inspire other states to follow suit, and that is something the governor and all of us can be proud to have accomplished.” concluded Rosenthal.
new York now joins other states and hundreds of localities in taking a strong stand against puppy mill cruelty.