Photo: Getty Images
Signed into law on December 15 by Governor Kathy Hochul, there will be a ban of retail pet stores from selling dogs, cats and rabbits in New York. The bill named, "Puppy Mill Pipeline Bill," was passed by the New York State Assembly in June of 2022. Now it was officially signed into law. “Dogs, cats and rabbits across New York deserve loving homes and humane treatment,” said Governor Hochul. “I’m proud to sign this legislation, which will make meaningful steps to cut down on harsh treatment and protect the welfare of animals across the state.”
According to the ASPCA, there are thousands of dogs being sold in pet stores across New York, making it one of the country's highest concentration of pet stores that sell puppies. The "puppy mills" often mistreat the animals, keep them in tiny spaces and do not provide the proper care an animal needs. Not only is it a horrible way to treat the animals, but people who end up purchasing the animals end up experiencing health or behavioral issues early on with the dog due to its trauma.
State Senator Michael Gianaris said, “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 voiceless loving animals who are members of our families and deserve the respect we’ve shown them today.”
The "Puppy Mill Pipeline Bill" will officially go into effect in 2024 and according to the new law pet stores can charge shelters rent to use their space for adoptions.