New York is awaiting the signature of its governor to enact a bill into law which makes it obligatory for animal rescuers to register with the state.
The reason for this new law is:
- The current law contains a troublesome loophole. Pet stores and sellers of cats and dogs from home must be licensed and inspected by the Department of Agriculture and Markets. Non-profit animal shelters and rescues are exempt hence the loophole.
- Some pet dealers trying to avoid state regulations rebrand themselves as nonprofit rescuers thereby avoiding oversight by the state.
- Purpose of the bill is to learn about the “size, scope types and true nature” of shelters and rescue facilities in the state.
Thirty-five states have regulations regarding rescues. In New York, Sen. Phil Boyle sponsored the bill known as S.5599.
I see a lot of breeders advertising their puppies or kittens as adoptions.