The New York State Senate has passed a bill that is designed to make pet theft a felony offense. Once it goes through the Assembly, the bill will provide much stronger protection for licensed dogs or cats (New York law previously required proof that a felony theft involved an item of property valued at over $1,000).
The American Kennel Club has reported a significant increase in stolen pet reports, up 49 percent from 2010 to 2011.
This new measure is being called the toughest pet theft law in the United States, carrying up to a four year prison sentence upon conviction. Animal rescue groups and responsible breeders are applauding the bill as it will protect pets from being stolen for use in dog-fighting, puppy mills, or other unacceptable purposes.
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