Cuomo sets to boost fines for mistreating, stealing pets

[hrmjustin]

GLENN BLAIN

ALBANY — A new law is adding some bite to penalties against dognappers in New York.

Gov. Cuomo is set to sign legislation Wednesday that boosts the fines for mistreating or stealing “companion animals” from $200 to $1,000, the Daily News has learned.

“For many New Yorkers, a pet can be an extension of their family — which is why pet theft is a particularly heartless offense,” Cuomo said. “Increasing the penalties for stealing or harming dogs, cats and other animals is an important way that we can crack down on this crime.”

The legislation, approved by the Assembly and Senate in June, marks the first time in 40 years lawmakers have increased the penalty for stealing pets. The law already contains a provision allowing for jail terms of up to six months for pet theft.

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/exclusive-cuomo-sets-boost-fines-mistreating-stealing-pets-article-1.1876628

[Erich Bloodaxe BSN]

1. Still way too low, but a good start.

That's probably less than many pet owners spend on their pet in a single year. Heck, a single bout of pancreatitis in one of my dogs wound up running to $500 in treatment. If he wants to stop it from happening, the potential 'rewards' of committing the crime need to be a lot smaller than the 'risks'. Make it a 10k fine, and very few pets will be worth the risk.

[hrmjustin]

2. Agree thag it is too low. Pets need to have stronger protection.