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Starting Sunday, Dec. 15, pet stores across the state must cease all sales, leases, or transfers of dogs, cats, and rabbits, New York Attorney General Letitia James announced on Friday, Nov. 22.
James emphasized that the law, known as the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act, is designed to disrupt large-scale breeding operations, often referred to as puppy mills, which have long been criticized for inhumane treatment and poor health conditions for animals.
“Bringing a new pet into a family should be a time of excitement and joy, but often animals from ‘puppy mills’ suffer from serious medical issues and leave families heartbroken over their sick pet and with a heavy bill to pay,” James said, adding, “This pet sale ban will help put an end to the dangerous puppy mill to pet store pipeline that endangers pets and costs New Yorkers thousands of dollars in veterinary care.”
Under the law, pet stores may still partner with nonprofit rescue organizations to showcase adoptable pets, but they could face fines of up to $1,000 per violation if they continue to sell, lease, or transfer ownership of these animals.
Puppy mills are notorious for overcrowded, unsanitary conditions where animals are bred without proper care or attention to their health. Pets from these operations often end up in retail stores with undisclosed medical conditions, leaving families to shoulder significant veterinary costs.
Earlier this year, the Attorney General’s office secured $300,000 in restitution for customers of Shake A Paw, which operated stores in the Nassau County municipalities of Hicksville and Lynbrook on Long Island. The investigation revealed the store had sold sick pets, misrepresented their health and breed, and refused to reimburse families for veterinary bills, according to the AG’s Office.
“This is a great step forward for our four-legged friends as we continue to fight against abusive and inhumane puppy mills,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris, who co-sponsored the legislation.
“Stores selling cats, dogs, and rabbits will finally face the music this December when that practice must end,” said Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal, who also co-sponsored the law. “This law will spare countless animals the abuse and disease they suffer in puppy mills and will protect consumers as well.”
Rosenthal acknowledged the possibility that some pet stores might attempt to exploit legal loopholes but assured New Yorkers that enforcement will remain a top priority.
“I am glad that Attorney General James will continue to hold these stores accountable,” she added.
New Yorkers can still adopt pets through licensed breeders or nonprofit rescue organizations, which can rent space in pet stores to showcase animals. This ensures families can find new furry companions without supporting unethical breeding practices.
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