Animals, Pets and Wildlife - NYC Health

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Animals, Pets and Wildlife

New Yorkers regularly come into contact with many animals, both wild and domestic. Learn about the care, options and regulations involving New York City animals, pets and wildlife.

Retail Pet Stores

As of December 15, 2024, it is illegal to sell dogs and cats at retail pet stores in New York State.

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Cats, Dogs, Rabbits and Guinea Pigs

Adopt a dog, cat, guinea pig or rabbit

Note that as of December 15, 2024, NYC pet shops can no longer sell cats and dogs in addition to rabbits and guinea pigs.

Dog Bites

Dog Licensing

Dog e-Locator for lost dogs

Low-cost Spay and Neuter Clinics for dogs and cats

Rabies: Protecting Your Pet (PDF)

Service Dog Information

Trap-Neuter-Return of Feral Cats

Dog and Cat "Cafes" (PDF)

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Dining with Dogs in Restaurants (PDF)
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Horses

Horses Working in NYC

Caring for Horses Working in NYC

Carriage Horse Licensing

Wildlife

Wildlife in New York City

Raccoons

Pigeons

Report an Animal Bite

Rat Information Portal

Additional Resources

Article 11 of the NYC Health Code: Reportable Diseases (PDF)

Article 161 of the NYC Health Code: Animals Prohibited in NYC (PDF)

Consolidated Pet Shop Laws (PDF)

NYC Administrative Code - Microchip Law (PDF)

Animal Care Centers of New York

Hot Weather Tips for Pet Owners (PDF)

To report animal cruelty, call 311 or file online

Call 311 to report a stray, injured or abandoned animal or pet

More Information

Permits and Licenses: Animal Facilities

Animal Abuse Registry

Animal Disease Reporting

Emergency Preparedness for Pet Owners