(WNY News Now) A new age of humane pet adoption in New York will soon begin with the implementation of a historic law that aims to stop the horrific funnel that runs from puppy mills to retail pet stores.
NEW YORK Licensed pet dealers with retail locations were informed yesterday by New York Attorney General Letitia James that it will be unlawful to sell dogs, cats, and rabbits in New York as of December 15. The goal of the pet sale ban is to put an end to puppy mills, which are hazardous, large-scale breeding enterprises where animals are frequently abused and have major health problems. The condition of the animals bred by puppy mills is frequently misrepresented, and sick pups are sent to retail establishments, costing families hundreds of dollars in veterinary care. Retail pet shops that keep selling animals after December 15 risk fines of up to $1,000 for each infraction. Pets from licensed breeders, animal rescues, and lawfully incorporated humane associations are still available for adoption in New York.
According to Attorney General James, adopting a new pet should be an exciting and joyful time for families, but frequently, puppies from puppy mills have major health problems that leave families devastated by their ailing pet and with a hefty bill to pay. The deadly puppy mill to pet store pipeline that puts pets in peril and costs New Yorkers hundreds of dollars in veterinary treatment will be stopped in part by this restriction on pet sales. Those in New York who would like to bring a pet into their home can still adopt from a licensed breeder, animal rescue, or human society.
Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris remarked, “This is a great step forward for our four-legged friends as we continue to fight against abusive and inhumane puppy mills.” I am thankful that the Attorney General plans to vigorously enforce our new law because we have stood up for the voiceless animals, who deserve respect and care.
Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal stated that stores that sell dogs, cats, and rabbits will finally have to face the consequences when that practice comes to an end in December. Being the sponsor of this historic law that will stop the terrible puppy mill pipeline to New York State makes me incredibly proud. This regulation will safeguard customers and spare numerous animals from the disease and mistreatment they endure in puppy mills. However, we should expect that some institutions may use every legal gimmick in the book to get around the law, just like with every legislation that changes the status quo. Attorney General James will continue to hold these stores accountable, and I applaud that. I’m excited to collaborate with her to safeguard the well-being of our animals and the numerous New Yorkers who view them as members of their family.
Senator Michael Gianaris and Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal are co-sponsors of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act, which forbids retail pet stores from leasing, selling, or transferring ownership of dogs, cats, or rabbits. Pet shops may still display animals up for adoption by collaborating with charitable, certified animal rescue groups. The law permits pet shops to charge rescue organizations fair rental fees for the use of their space while displaying animals up for adoption. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) may take enforcement action against violators of the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act, which could result in fines of up to $1,000 per infraction.
Attorney General James obtained $300,000 earlier last year from Shake A Paw, a pet retailer on Long Island, on behalf of hundreds of customers who were unintentionally and unlawfully sold diseased puppies. Shake A Paw misrepresented puppy breeds, neglected to disclose the animals’ actual medical issues, and refused to refund customers for veterinary expenditures they incurred because the dogs they bought were ill, according to an OAG inquiry. It was discovered that the diseases and birth abnormalities in these animals were typical of puppies bought from puppy factories.