Dogs and Cats Banned From Being Sold In Retail Pet Stores in New York State

Specific pets are now banned from being sold at retail pet stores across New York State.

New York's Puppy Mill Pipeline Bill Timeline

Towards the end of 2021 and into 2022, a bill was introduced in Albany that would prohibit "the sale of dogs, cats and rabbits by retail pet shops; authorizes space for adoption." Senate Bill S1130 is also known as the Puppy Mill Pipeline Bill and his been in talks for a few years now.

READ MORE: NY Passes 'Puppy Mill' Bill Ending Sales of Dogs, Cats in Stores

In June 2022 the bill was passed by the New York State Assembly, but with that being said it was not signed by New York Governor Kathy Hochul. The American Society for Prevention of the Cruelty of Animals, or more commonly known as the ASPCA brought attention to the missing Governor's signature and in a statement shared that New York is one of the largest markets in the puppy mill industry.

By December of 2022, Governor Hochul signed the bill however it would take over a year for the bill to go into effect.

Puppy Mill Pipeline Bill Goes into Effect in New York State

At the start of 2024, Senate Bill S1130 went into effect. In a statement obtained by CBS6 in Albany, Gov. Hochul said:

"Dogs, cats and rabbits across New York deserve loving homes and humane treatment. 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."

Pets can still be adopted from animal shelters and according to CBS6 retail pet stores can "charge shelters rent to use their space if they choose to host adoptable pets." Many pet shelters in the Hudson Valley have been overflowing with rescues and need more space at their organizations.

You can learn more about Hudson Valley rescues below.

Along with Bill s1130, there are a few other new laws that will go into effect in 2024 in New York State, take a look below: