The holidays may not seem like a time to think about politics, but animals in New York will continue to be at risk, if we don't act now. The Mohawk Hudson Humane Society takes in more than 6,000 animals each year. We have seen firsthand how regulators have failed to protect animals in New York's pet stores and breeding facilities.
Many of us live with and love our animals every day. The lives of animals in pet stores and with commercial breeders are very different. Alone, without companionship, their whole world may consist of only a small cage.
Breeder and pet store inspections are low priorities and underfunded. Commercial breeders often are allowed to stay in business after repeated violations for failure to provide care to injured animals and allowing animals to live in filth. I think we can do better.
Thankfully, the Legislature passed A740/S3753, sponsored by Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal and Sen. Mark Grisanti. This legislation would allow localities to regulate breeders and pet stores. It is essential to have local control of these businesses. If a breeder decides to open shop in a small town, they could bring in 100 dogs to breed. What happens if that business goes bust? Local shelters and law enforcement are often burdened with the unwinding of failed breeders. Because the impact of breeding is handled by localities and local nonprofits, they should have the ability to regulate.
Unfortunately, Gov. Andrew Cuomo has yet to sign this important bill. I urge him to sign this legislation to reduce animal suffering and protect consumers by authorizing municipalities to enact more stringent animal protection laws.
Brad Shear is the executive director of the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society.