New York's Puppy Mill Pipeline Act bans retail pet store sales of dogs, cats, and rabbits statewide as of December 2024. Westchester pet stores must source only adoptable shelter and rescue animals.
New York General Business Law Article 35-D, enacted by the Puppy Mill Pipeline Act and effective December 15, 2024, prohibits Westchester pet shops from selling dogs, cats, or rabbits supplied by breeders. Stores may showcase animals from registered shelters and rescues for adoption. Existing stores have transition periods. Local authorities including WCDOH and consumer protection investigate violations. Online sales originating outside New York remain regulated only by federal Animal Welfare Act standards. Breeders may still sell directly to consumers, but advertising in retail spaces is restricted.
Violations of Article 35-D carry civil penalties up to 1,000 dollars per animal sold illegally, plus license revocation and consumer restitution under New York consumer protection law.
See how Mount Vernon's pet store rules rules stack up against other locations.
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