DD Animal News: May 23, 2025 When disaster hits, who do you grab first? Your phone? Your wallet? For many of us, it’s our dogs, cats, and feathered or scaled companions. Now, New York lawmakers are making sure our beloved pets are no longer an afterthought when emergencies strike.
The New York State Senate just passed S896, a groundbreaking bill that makes pet-friendly emergency evacuation plans a legal requirement. That’s right—your furry best friend now has a seat on the emergency preparedness train.
A Law That Understands the Bond
Crafted by Senator Monica R. Martinez, S896 mandates that every local emergency management plan in the state must include pet accommodations. This means:
- Pet-friendly shelters and temporary housing must be identified ahead of time
- Local authorities are encouraged to partner with animal shelters, SPCA chapters, and veterinary services to support animals during disasters
This approach reflects a growing understanding that pets aren’t just property—they’re family members. Leaving them out of emergency planning has real emotional and safety consequences, both for the animals and their human guardians.
“This legislation ensures no one is put in the heartbreaking position of choosing between safety and their beloved companion.” — Sen. Monica R. Martinez, as quoted in World Animal News.
Tragedy Sparks Change
The urgency behind this bill became heartbreakingly clear after the devastating January 2025 wildfires in Los Angeles. The fires claimed 30 lives and destroyed thousands of homes. Among the stories was that of an 85-year-old woman who refused to evacuate because she couldn’t bring her pets—a dog, a turtle, a canary, and two parrots. She died in her car, parked outside her home, with her animals by her side.
Her story was reported by People Magazine, underscoring the depth of the bond between people and their pets—and why planning for animals is a matter of life and death, not convenience.
More Than One Bill—It’s a Movement
S896 is just one part of a broader movement led by Sen. Martinez to protect animals across New York. Other passed legislation includes:
- Tucker’s Law (S197) – Allows tougher sentences for multiple counts of animal cruelty
- Wild & Exotic Animal Protection Act (S252) – Cracks down on the trade and abuse of non-domesticated animals
- Anti-Abandonment Act (S1741) – Raises fines for pet abandonment to hold owners accountable
Pending bills still in consideration:
- S673 – HPAT Program: Grants for shelters that house domestic violence survivors and their pets
- S1742: Increased penalties for dogs left outside in extreme weather
- S1743: Full enforcement powers for SPCA officers
- S7612 – Co-Shelter Toolkit: A statewide resource to help cities create pet-inclusive housing programs, especially for the homeless
This growing legislative momentum reflects a powerful shift in public policy—one that sees animal welfare not as a secondary concern, but as a core component of public safety, community well-being, and compassionate governance.
Why Dog Lovers Should Celebrate
For dog owners—and all animal lovers—this legislation is a major victory. It acknowledges what we’ve always known: our pets are family, and family doesn’t get left behind.
With the New York State Assembly now reviewing S896, and Governor Kathy Hochul expected to weigh in soon, New York is leading the pack on humane emergency planning. If passed, this bill could become a national model—ensuring that when disaster strikes, every member of the family has a way out.
