Hempstead Town Board Passes Law to Protect Pets

TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD, NY - The Hempstead Town Board recently voted unanimously to pass a law to protect local pets.

The new legislation, which was created to strengthened an existing town law, penalize dog owners who leash their pets outdoors, leave them in inclement weather or keep them in confined cars for long periods of time.

Under the new law, no pet owner will be allowed to tether their dog outside for longer than two continuous hours within a 12-hour period.

Additionally, the dog’s collar must be loose enough (two fingers must fit between the dog’s neck and collar) as to not restrict breathing and, while leashed outside, the dog must be given access to food, water, shelter and enough space to “do its business” away from their food and water area, according to the Town.

The law also states that no animals can be kept in an unattended car without enough ventilation and cannot be left in extreme cold or heat conditions that may endanger the animal’s health.

Pets owners who violate the law could face a large fine.

Under this legislation, Town animal control and safety officers, as well as police officers, have the right to enter a person’s yard and/or car and bring the animal to the safety of the Town Animal Shelter if they conclude that the animal’s well-being is at risk.

The officer would leave notice on the person’s home or vehicle, indicating where they could reclaim their pet.

Residents are encouraged to report offenders to the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter at (516) 785-5220.