Licensing & Oversight: All municipal and not-for-profit cat and dog shelters and rescues must obtain an annual state license ($150 fee) and undergo regular inspections by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. Sanctuaries that do not adopt out animals are exempt. [1, 2, 3]
Housing & Facility Standards: Facilities must maintain indoor temperatures between 60°F and 80°F, ammonia levels under 2 ppm, and noise levels below 85 dB. Enclosures must provide enough space for animals to stand and turn around freely, with strict limits on group housing sizes (e.g., maximum of 5 dogs or 12 cats). Unattended drop boxes are prohibited. [1, 2]
Veterinary Care & Medical Protocols: Intake injury/illness checks must occur within 2 hours. Comprehensive veterinary exams must happen within 24 hours. Core and rabies vaccinations, as well as parasite treatments, must be administered (core vaccines within 48 hours). Spay/neuter surgery is required prior to adoption. [1, 2]
Daily Care & Exercise: Animals require daily positive social/exercise interactions (at least 20 minutes) alongside routine feeding and cleaning time.
