Final signature count: 12,193

12,193 signatures toward our 30,000 goal

When Gus, a French bulldog, was left outside in extreme heat at a Halfmoon dog daycare, he died from the conditions he endured. The facility’s owner now faces felony animal cruelty charges under Buster’s Law¹. In Queens, a man admitted to killing and burning a dog — and walked free within hours due to current bail laws⁵. These cases reveal a dangerous reality: without stronger protections, known abusers can and will harm again.

Why a Statewide Registry Matters

Some New York counties have created animal abuser registries, but these systems stop at county lines. An offender barred from adopting in one jurisdiction can easily cross into another without detection¹. Senate Bill S1563 would close this loophole by creating a single, statewide registry listing the names and addresses of all individuals convicted under Buster’s Law. The registry would be public and accessible to shelters, rescues, breeders, pet stores, and private citizens².

New York City already operates a local version, requiring offenders to register and banning them from owning, residing with, or making physical contact with animals for five years³. This model works, but its impact is limited without a statewide approach.

Protecting Animals Also Protects People

The FBI recognizes animal cruelty as a Group A offense due to its strong links with other violent crimes¹. Research and real-world cases show that individuals who harm animals often progress to offenses against people, including children. The abuse of Buster the cat in 1999 — an act so horrific it inspired Buster’s Law — was followed by the perpetrator committing multiple violent crimes against a young girl¹.

Addressing Concerns and Moving Forward

Some groups, including the ASPCA, caution that registries can be costly, underused, and incomplete⁴. They warn that registries alone cannot stop all abuse, as offenders may still obtain animals through unregulated means. This is why S1563 must be part of a broader effort that includes tougher penalties, lifetime bans for severe offenders, and mandatory psychiatric evaluations¹.

Even with limitations, a statewide registry is a powerful preventive tool. It empowers those who place animals to make informed decisions and creates a deterrent for potential offenders. Coupled with strengthened enforcement, it can help keep both animals and people safe.

Act Now to Protect New York’s Animals

Our companion animals depend on us to defend them from cruelty. They cannot speak for themselves, but we can speak — and act — for them. By supporting Senate Bill S1563, you are taking a stand against repeat abusers and helping to ensure safer communities for everyone.

Sign the petition now to tell New York lawmakers to pass S1563 and protect vulnerable animals across the state.