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NYC set to ban sale of dogs and cats at pet stores and unlicensed locations
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Nov 22, 2024
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Michael M. Santiago / Getty Images
By
Brittany Kriegstein
Published Nov 22, 2024
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New Yorkers may no longer be able to buy dogs and cats in pet shops starting next month.
The New York City Council passed a bill on Thursday intended to crack down on puppy mills and so-called “backyard breeding” by prohibiting the sale of dogs and cats from retail stores as well as residential buildings, bodegas and other unlicensed facilities. Instead, prospective pet parents will be directed to licensed breeders and rescue shelters.
The legislation brings the city into alignment with a state law due to take effect on Dec. 15. California, Maryland and Illinois have also passed laws banning the sale of dogs and cats at pet shops, according to a Council committee report. In New York City, selling guinea pigs and rabbits is already prohibited at retail stores.
“As someone who has only ever had shelter and rescue pets, I have experienced their unconditional love and unwavering loyalty firsthand,” said Councilmember Justin Brannan, the bill’s sponsor, in a statement on Thursday. “There is absolutely no reason to allow a for-profit industry that abuses animals and treats them like commodities to continue to operate when our public shelter system is full of loving animals waiting to save your life.”
The bill had a wide margin of support in the Council, passing on a 40-5 vote, and includes civil penalties of $500 a day for individual violations. The city health department will have the power to take action against scofflaw vendors.
The group Voters for Animal Rights praised the bill’s passage as a win for animals in the city.
“We’re proud to have collaborated with the Council and staff to craft the strongest possible bill — sending a powerful message to end illegal animal sales while providing much-needed relief to shelters and rescues,” the organization said in a statement on social media.
If Mayor Eric Adams signs the legislation into law, it will go into effect on Dec. 15, alongside the state law. City Hall did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Friday.
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new york city
animals
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Politics
Brittany Kriegstein
Brittany Kriegstein covers all breaking news around New York City, with a focus on crime and gun violence. Got a tip? Email Brittany at [email protected].
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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