Briarcliff SPCA Applauds New Animal Protection Initiative

A new initiative announced by New York Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman Wednesday is "long overdue," according to Lisa Bonanno-Spence, development manager at the SPCA of Westchester.

In a press release, Schneiderman outlined his Animal Protection Initative, "aimed at shutting down criminal animal fighting rings, ensuring compliance with New York State's Pet Lemon Law, charging those who abuse or neglect animals, and cracking down on the abuses of so-called “puppy mills” in order to protect the welfare of the animals being sold and the consumers."

Schneiderman stated, "There is a direct correlation between the dog fighting rings and other criminal enterprises, including gangs, gambling and illegal drugs, that put our communities at risk. At the same time, New Yorkers spend millions of dollars each year on the companionship a pet can provide. I am committed to enforcing our state’s consumer protection laws and protecting the right of every New Yorker to live in a safe community."

Bonanno-Spence said that all too often animal welfare is "overlooked and at the bottom of the agenda."

She noted, "Considering millions of animals are put down across the country each year, it is crucial that something be done on a higher level of government. I am very pleased to learn about the Attorney General’s Animal Protection Initiative for shelter animals, and all animals in need of a voice."

The Briarcliff Manor-based organization has a humane law enforcement officer who works with police across the county in cases of suspected animal cruelty.

New Yorkers seeking to report consumer complaints, animal abuse or give anonymous tips about potential animal fighting rings are asked to call 1-800-771-7755 and press 1.