The Legislature went on record in support of proposed New York State legislation, now before the Senate and Assembly, which would prohibit the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits by retail pet shops, and authorizing space for adoption. The vote was unanimous, with Legislator Shawna Black excused. The resolution notes that nearly all puppies and kittens for sale in pet shops come from puppy and kitten mills, defined by the Humane Society of New York as “large commercial breeders where animals are often warehoused in unsanitary conditions, in cramped cages, deprived of socialization, exercise, and necessary veterinary care.” The measure characterizes pet shops as essential for keeping puppy and kitten mills in business, and that the proposed law is aimed to hurt puppy mill operators by decreasing their options for selling their product.
Legislator Amanda Champion, who sponsored the resolution, said, “This is something that tells our State Senate and Assembly people we want them to pass it. This will stop the pipeline of puppies, kittens and rabbits from these mills to pet stores.” The only animals pet stores would be able to sell are rescue animals, Champion stated; this would not impact any pet stores in Tompkins County, but it is her understanding is that a lot of downstate pet stores sell these animals. It was noted that, were the legislation passed, people would still be able to buy animals from reputable breeders.