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Bill

A 6395

Expands requirements of sheltering of dogs outside

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Tannousis

New York bill strengthens outdoor dog shelter requirements to improve animal welfare standards and prevent cold-weather neglect of pets and working dogs.

REFERRED TO AGRICULTURE
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Bill Summary · A 6395

Legislative bill overview

Assembly Bill A 6395 expands legal requirements for how dogs must be sheltered when kept outside in New York State. The bill strengthens existing animal welfare standards by imposing stricter regulations on outdoor dog housing conditions, including shelter quality, access to essentials, and climate protections.

Why is this important

Dogs left outside face serious health risks from extreme weather, inadequate shelter, and poor living conditions. This bill directly addresses animal welfare by establishing clearer, more enforceable standards that could prevent suffering and neglect, while also potentially reducing animal control complaints and veterinary emergencies in cold climates like New York.

Potential points of contention

  • Rural vs. urban enforcement: Farmers and rural residents with working dogs may view expanded requirements as burdensome or impractical compared to urban pet owners
  • Cost of compliance: Small property owners and kennels could face significant expenses upgrading shelters to meet new standards, raising concerns about economic impact on low-income households
  • Definitional ambiguity: The bill's specific shelter requirements (insulation, size, drainage, etc.) may be vague, creating inconsistent enforcement and disputes over what constitutes "adequate" shelter

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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