Gov. Cuomo Signs Senator Ball’s Puppy Mill Bill into Law

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has signed legislation: S7268A, also known as “Charlemagne’s Law,” into law. The legislation, sponsored by Senator Greg Ball (R,C-Patterson), will improve the health and quality of life of animals by providing duly licensed pet dealers with updated standards of care.

In May, Senator Greg Ball enlisted the support of his Animal Advisory Council, concerned constituents, the Westchester County SPCA, and their furry friends at a Puppy Mill Protest in Somers, N.Y. in support of this bill.

“This is a great day, and showcases what can get done when you reach across the aisle. This is the first step, in what is sure to be a long journey against inhumane practices, but it is a solid first step to protect our four-legged friends. It is horrifying to think that dogs and cats are being raised in such inhumane conditions, stacked atop one another drenched in feces and urine with no room to exercise. I’m certainly focused on my core issues of less government, lower taxes and job creation, yet thrilled that Governor Cuomo has signed this bill, that will protect these animals and the consumer,” said Senator Ball. “I’ve had friends and constituents whose families have suffered through extreme emotional and financial damage, while the immoral businesses that abuse these animals make high profits. It is my belief that government should stay out of the way of small business, but when it comes to harming animals or families, it’s time to intervene.”

“Puppy Mills” house dogs in shockingly poor conditions, solely for the purpose of breeding. After their fertility wanes, these animals are often killed, abandoned or sold cheaply to another mill. The result of all this breeding is millions of puppies, many with behavior and/or health problems. This legislation will provide that any licensed pet dealer must:

• Designate an attending veterinarian to care for the animals at the facility, who will be available, if needed for emergency, weekend and holiday care;
• Comply with a written program of veterinarian care provided by the attending veterinarian;
• Allow regular visits by the attending veterinarian;
• Provide appropriate facilities, personnel, equipment and services for the animals to implement the plan developed by the attending veterinarian;
• Develop a program to prevent, control and respond to diseases and injuries;
• Designate an employee, trained by the attending veterinarian to provide daily observation of all animals to assess their health and well-being;
• Develop, maintain, document and implement an appropriate daily exercise plan approved by the attending veterinarian. This plan will include providing positive physical contact with humans that encourages exercise through play and other similar activities;
• Designate and provide an isolation area for animals that exhibit symptoms of contagious disease or illness in order to prevent or reduce the spread of disease to health animals;
• Vaccinate as required by the state or local law all animals;
• Not sell any animal that has been diagnosed with a congenital condition or contagious disease.

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