Images of cats and dogs with the text The Humane Society of New York Since 1904

Damages for Causing Harm

  • A. 1372 Provides that court may consider evidence regarding the bond between a companion animal and the companion animal’s guardian when determining damages for the negligent, reckless or intentional causing of physical injury or death to the companion animal. Punitive damages may also be awarded.

  • A. 3976 and S. 4084 Establishes a cause of action for the wrongful injury to or death of a companion animal and provides that a person who unjustifiably, intentionally, recklessly or negligently causes such physical injury or death shall be liable for veterinary expenses, mental distress suffered by the animal’s guardian or members of the guardian’s household, and may be liable for punitive damages and attorneys’ fees.

Contact Your Representatives

To help take action on any of these or other animal protection bills pending before the NYS Legislature, use the methods below to reach lawmakers.

  1. Your Assembly member and New York State Senator

    If you do not know their names or contact information, go to www.nyassembly.gov  and www.nysenate.gov. If you provide your address, you can get this information. In your communication, mention that you are a constituent and include your address.

  2. Senate and Assembly Leadership

    Name: Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Majority Leader
    Phone: (518)455-2585
    Email: scousins@nysenate.gov
    Fax: (518)426-6811;
    Address: Room 907, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12247

    Name: Carl E. Heastie, Assembly Speaker
    Phone: (518)455-3791
    Email: speaker@nyassembly.gov
    Fax: (518)455-4812
    Address: Room 932, Legislative Office Building, Albany, NY 12248