Kaminsky Announces Support of Anti-Animal Abuse Legislation

Today, Senator Todd Kaminsky announced that he is co-sponsoring bills to combat animal abuse. The legislation bans the cruel practice of tying up animals outside overnight, confining pets in small cages and using leashes that choke animals. A separate bill creates an Animal Cruelty Database that lets law enforcement track animal abusers.

"We have a duty to protect the pets that have become our family. No animal should ever be abused or neglected,” said Senator Todd Kaminsky. “When I think that some pet owners chain their dog overnight in the winter, it makes me shudder and is simply abhorrent. These bills establish necessary standards for the humane treatment of animals while also giving law enforcement the tools they need to track abusers. I will continue fighting to increase protections for animals on Long Island and across New York.”

“The Humane Society of the United States joins the League of Humane Voters of New York in applauding Senator Kaminsky for his support of important animal protection legislation,” said Brian Shapiro, NY State Director for The HSUS. “Cracking down on animal cruelty and neglect creates safer communities for both people and our companion animals.”

Senator Kaminsky has co-sponsored two bills to combat animal cruelty. S1283 prohibits tying up animals outside overnight and using leashes that choke animals. The bill also requires that cages be four times the height and length of the animal and that when confined the animal is able to reach food, water, shade and dry ground. S2558 directs the State of New York to create the Animal Cruelty Database and include names of people over the age of 18 who have been convicted of various crimes against animals, including animal cruelty and neglect.

Senator Kaminsky has been a leader in the fight against animal abuse. Last December, he sponsored legislation to create and require dog trainers to have a license. The bill also banned individuals who have been convicted of animal abuse from receiving a license.