New pet shelter registration requirements are now in effect across New York State.

Animal shelters, rescue organizations and other non-profit groups that offer animal adoptions in New York are now required to register with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets for the first time ever.

The new requirements are designed to provide increased transparency to potential pet owners.

State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball said, “We are now in the process of reaching out to all animal shelters and rescues to make sure they are registered with the Department.  This will help us keep New Yorkers better informed about the facilities that are offering companion animals for adoption.”

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