Oneonta Vet Prompts New Law Across Finish Line

ONEONTA, 10/29/14 -- State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I – Oneonta) today presented Dr. David Leahy of Community Veterinary Center in Oneonta with a pen certificate from the governor commemorating the signing of senate bill 2742B into law.

The legislation amends the New York Veterinary Practice Act, clarifying that animal dentistry is a specialty included within the scope of veterinary medicine.  

“This new law languished for sometime in Albany until Dr. Leahy took up the cause and successfully advocated for its adoption,” said Senator Seward.  “This is a clear-cut example of how one person can make a difference.”

Dr. Leahy, a member of the executive board with the New York State Veterinary Medical Society, brought the legislation to Senator Seward’s attention and helped initiate definitive action on the bill.

The legislation ensures that pet owners seeking dental treatment for their beloved animals are not misled by unregulated practitioners.  The bill also addresses a concern of the horse racing industry by specifically excluding the practice of floating (filing) equine cheek teeth with a hand file.  The new law brings New York in compliance with most other neighboring states, including Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and, Vermont.

The legislation, which was supported by the New York Farm Bureau, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), and the New York State Veterinary Medical Society, was signed into law on August 11, 2014.

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Photo: Senator James L. Seward (right) presents a pen certificate from the governor to Dr. David Leahy of Community Veterinary Center in Oneonta commemorating the signing of senate bill 2742B into law.