New York Bans Pet Store Sales of Cats and Dogs
NYC Pet Stores Say Goodbye to Puppy Sales as New Law Takes Effect
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Starting tomorrow,Dec. 15, the days of buying puppies from pet stores in New York are over. A 2022 state law banning the sale of cats and dogs in retail pet stores officially takes effect, aiming to curb the flow of animals from abusive breeding facilities.
The New York City Health Department will be enforcing the ban, reminding all permitted pet stores of the upcoming deadline.
This landmark legislation, signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul in 2022, seeks to dismantle the “puppy mill-to-pet store pipeline” and protect animals from inhumane breeding practices.
“Dogs, cats, and rabbits across New York deserve loving homes and humane treatment,” Hochul said at the time.
The law also encourages a compassionate choice: adoption. pet stores will now be allowed to partner with shelters, offering space for adoptions and charging rent to these organizations.
“Make this holiday season unforgettable and consider adopting a furry friend from one of the Animal Care Centers of NYC,” said Health Department Deputy Commissioner Corrine Schiff. “by choosing adoption, you’ll gain a devoted family member and give a deserving animal a chance at happiness.”
Animal advocates applaud the new law, highlighting its potential to significantly reduce animal suffering.
“This law not only helps shut down that pipeline but also shines a light on humane alternatives such as adopting from shelters,” said Risa Weinstock, President and CEO of Animal Care Centers of NYC. “At Animal Care Centers of NYC, we see firsthand the impact of overbreeding and neglect, and we certainly know this law will help ensure more animals find the loving homes they deserve.”
Currently, 24 pet shops in New York City are permitted to sell cats and dogs. These stores hold certificates in animal care and handling,demonstrating their ability to responsibly manage animals. The Health Department will conduct inspections to ensure compliance and issue summonses with fines to any store violating the new law.
New Yorkers looking to welcome a furry friend into their lives can find hundreds of adorable cats, dogs, and other animals available for adoption at the city’s three Animal Care Centers – located in Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.
The public is encouraged to report any pet store selling cats or dogs after the deadline to 311.
For more information about adopting or fostering animals in new York City, visit the Mayor’s Office of Animal Welfare website.
NYC Pet Stores Say Goodbye to Puppy Sales as New Law Takes Effect
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Starting tomorrow, Dec.15, the days of buying puppies from pet stores in New York are over. A 2022 state law banning the sale of cats and dogs in retail pet stores officially takes effect, aiming to curb the flow of animals from abusive breeding facilities.
The New York City Health Department will be enforcing the ban, reminding all permitted pet stores of the upcoming deadline.
This landmark legislation, signed by gov.Kathy Hochul in 2022, seeks to dismantle the “puppy mill-to-pet store pipeline” and protect animals from inhumane breeding practices.
“Dogs, cats, and rabbits across New York deserve loving homes and humane treatment,” Hochul said at the time.
The law also encourages a compassionate choice: adoption. Pet stores will now be allowed to partner with shelters, offering space for adoptions and charging rent to these organizations.
“Make this holiday season unforgettable and consider adopting a furry friend from one of the Animal Care Centers of NYC,” said Health Department Deputy Commissioner Corrine Schiff.”By choosing adoption, you’ll gain a devoted family member and give a deserving animal a chance at happiness.”
Animal advocates applaud the new law, highlighting its potential to significantly reduce animal suffering.
“This law not only helps shut down that pipeline but also shines a light on humane alternatives such as adopting from shelters,” said Risa Weinstock, President and CEO of Animal Care Centers of NYC. “At Animal Care Centers of NYC, we see firsthand the impact of overbreeding and neglect, and we certainly know this law will help ensure more animals find the loving homes they deserve.”
Currently, 24 pet shops in New York City are permitted to sell cats and dogs. These stores hold certificates in animal care and handling, demonstrating their ability to responsibly manage animals. The Health Department will conduct inspections to ensure compliance and issue summonses with fines to any store violating the new law.
new Yorkers looking to welcome a furry friend into their lives can find hundreds of adorable cats, dogs, and other animals available for adoption at the city’s three Animal Care Centers – located in Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island.
The public is encouraged to report any pet store selling cats or dogs after the deadline to 311.
For more details about adopting or fostering animals in New York City, visit the Mayor’s Office of Animal Welfare website.
