Dog Abuse Video Spurs Legislation to License Trainers

In light of recent allegations of dog abuse at NY Dog Works in Oceanside, Senator Todd Kaminsky on Monday unveiled legislation that creates a state-issued license for dog obedience trainers to curb the unregulated practice of individuals claiming to be dog training experts.

New York law currently does not require the licensing and regulation of businesses that provide dog obedience training. Kaminsky’s bill would directly close that gap by creating professional standards and implementing consistent, streamlined licensing practices to protect consumers and pets that they love.

“I am horrified by the animal abuse that has taken place in our backyard,” said Kaminsky. “But what happened in Oceanside can happen anywhere, and it is our job to protect consumers and their dogs from devious and abusive practices. When consumers send their pets to training school, they have no assurance of the trainer’s credentials or professional experience – and that’s simply unacceptable. By creating streamlined licensing practices for dog obedience trainers, we are protecting our four-legged family members who cannot speak and shield themselves from abuse.”

Kaminsky’s legislation will further deny licensing to any individual previously convicted of animal abuse and allows for enforcement of violations by police officers and professionals who specialize in detecting animal abuse, such as the SPCA.

Assemblywoman-elect Missy Miller, who intends to sponsor this legislation in the Assembly, said, “I treat my pets as members of my family. We simply cannot allow another animal to be abused and have a duty to protect innocent consumers.”

Gary Rogers, of the Nassau County SPCA, said the organization was in favor of the bill. "Not only will it regulate dog trainers, but it will ensure that your pet will not be mistreated,” said Gary Rogers of the Nassau County SPCA."

Photo: Todd Kaminsky's Office