"As I've learned firsthand, pets quickly become members
of your family, and it is unconscionable that there are unscrupulous sellers
who would use pets as collateral," Governor Cuomo said. "I'm proud to
sign this legislation that will end this predatory practice once and for
all."
Senator Carl
Marcellino said, "Bringing a dog or cat home is both memorable and
exciting. At that moment of purchase, the focus is on a new family member, not
the fine print in the contract. Imagine the bewilderment of some customers when
they find out months later they do not actually own their new pet, but instead,
are locked into a rent-to-own scheme. I thank Governor Cuomo for signing this
legislation into law, ensuring that no pet owner or pet have to experience this
harmful practice ever again."
Assemblyman Matthew
Titone said, "We are not talking about cars or furniture here. These
are our pets that we have opened our homes and hearts to. We cannot allow this
practice, which commodifies our companions without much regard for their mental
well-being - while also deceiving New Yorkers - to continue any longer. Pet
leasing is a predatory practice that preys on people who cannot always afford a
companion animal. This bill will finally put an end to this deceptive practice
in New York."
Bill Ketzer, Senior
Director of State Legislation for the ASPCA, Northeast Region, said,
"The ASPCA has long warned consumers to be skeptical of pet stores and
online sellers who may deceive them about the sources and health of the dogs
they sell, and pet leasing is yet another example of the disregard retail pet
sellers can have for the well-being of their animals. These deceptive,
predatory financing arrangements benefit only the lending company and the pet
seller - not the consumer, and certainly not the animal involved. We are
grateful to Governor Cuomo for his continued leadership in animal welfare and
protection by prohibiting this practice once and for all."
