2012 was a busy legislative session for those of us interested in animal protection. Several bills supported by the Federation were signed by the Governor and have become state law.
-New requirements were passed for Pet Dealers that force them to have a relationship with a veterinarian that includes veterinary care for their animals, establishment of an isolation area for sick animals and a plan for exercising animals in their care.
-The possession of implements used in the course of training animals to fight or used during an animal fight have been prohibited.
-The use of heated cage dryers has been banned unless the heating element is turned off or the heating unit is hand held.
-The prohibition on live bird markets in New York City has been extended.
These are a few important victories, but they are only a first step. There are many more issues for us to come together and work on. I hope you will join us in our fight to protect animals.