Increased Standards For Health & Well-being of Animals at Shelters Goes Into Effect Next Week

Beginning on Monday, December 15th, shelters and rescues will have increased standards to ensure the health and well-being of animals in their care, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets says. The Dept of Agriculture and Markets says they have worked over the past year to educate and prepare shelters and rescues on the new requirements.

“The Department’s Division of Animal Industry understands that this new law may present some initial challenges for our shelters and rescues, and we are committed to assisting them with compliance. As part of this, our team has been hosting educational sessions and conducting outreach to help shelters prepare for these changes. Our goal is to assist our shelters through the transition phase this next year, ultimately ensuring that these new requirements in animal care are met and that we continue to have happy, healthy companion animals finding their forever families.” Said Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball.

New requirements include veterinary care, documentation, vaccinations, and more. An overview of the requirements may be found through the department’s website, HERE. The first year with the updated laws will be considered an educational year, the Department of Agriculture and Markets says. Through this year, inspectors will visit shelters and rescues and advise them on actions needed to ensure they are meeting the new guidelines.