A bill to ensure that no pets are left behind during an eviction has passed the New York State legislature and is headed to the governor’s desk to be signed into law, as reported by the New York Post. What the law will ultimately enforce is exactly what every pet owner would want: to make sure, no matter how bad the circumstances, that their beloved furry friends will be cared for.
Specifically, the bill cites that those who are executing eviction warrants must check for animals and make sure pets are reunited with their owners—or, placed and cared for accordingly if the owners are MIA. (Think foster mommies and daddies, and all the amazing organizations for people to volunteer.)
“No pet should ever be left behind and abandoned like an old couch,” said Republican state Sen. Jim Tedisco, the chair of the Senate Social Services Committee. “Those executing eviction notices and those leaving their home have a responsibility to make sure to check the property so an animal is not left behind to die.”
It’s totally not partisan either: Democrats are on the same exact page. “Pets are treasured members of the family, and this bill, once it’s signed into law, will ensure that every member of the family stays together, even during an eviction,” said Democratic Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal. “Evictions are hard enough without the fear that you may lose your beloved pet in the process. This bill will create a clear process that will protect animals and provide all New Yorkers with peace of mind that losing their apartment doesn’t also mean losing their pet.”
Here’s to hoping the rest of the country follows suit on this important—but often not discussed—issue that comes up with pets and family.
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