Yesterday a bill was sent to Governor Hochel’s desk that will allow responsible dog owners more opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities and socialization with their well-behaved pets, while still protecting and respecting the ability of all New Yorkers to enjoy state parks.
New York residents, and those who enjoy traveling and/or participating in outdoor events in the state with your dogs are encouraged to contact the Governor and ask her to sign Assembly Bill 6244 in one of the following ways:
Online contact form
Phone: (518) 474-8390
Summary:
Studies show that over 2.7 million New York households own a dog. Increasingly, pet owners are seeking opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities – and the health benefits that come from them – with their four-footed family members.
Assembly Bill 6244 would:
- Require that dogs be allowed in public parks during public hours, so long as they are leashed or in an area specifically designated for dogs to be unleashed, but under their owner’s control.
- Require that waste stations be made available, and that all owners clean up after their dogs
- Protect the enjoyment and safety of all park visitors by allowing for regulations that restrict the times of day/times of year for dogs to be allowed, and access to public beaches, playgrounds, swimming areas, etc.
- Protect wildlife by restricting access to certain areas
- Allow for additional regulations to ensure the safety of dogs, dog owners, and all park visitors, including vaccination requirements, regulations for dangerous dogs, and enforcement for dog owners not complying with the rules.
AKC was pleased to support this bill, which came about from a grassroots effort by local dog owners and clubs on Long Island, including the organization LI-Dogs. This legislation will allow responsible dog owners to bring their dogs to New York State parks, while still providing reasonable restrictions to protect public health and enjoyment for all park visitors. Read AKC’s previous alert for more information. AKC thanks all those who contacted their lawmakers in support of this legislation as it progressed through the legislature.
For more information on New York legislation, contact AKC Government Relations at doglaw@akc.org.