New law: Research dogs and cats must go up for adoption

Lab-coat labradors soon must go up for adoption once they’ve outlived their use for research purposes.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Tuesday signed legislation requiring that dogs and cats used for research purposes by higher education institutions be put up for adoption. The law requires that those animals deemed suitable for adoption by research facility veterinarians be made available to local shelters, animal rescue centers and humane societies once research is complete.

The legislation, sponsored by Democratic Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal of Manhattan and Republican state Sen. Phil Boyle of Long Island, will take effect in 60 days.

“This is a humane law that, for these animals, provides the opportunity for a new lease on life,” Cuomo said in a statement. “Dogs and cats are like members of the family for many New Yorkers and this action will allow for more four-legged friends to be adopted into a caring home.”

Read more: http://blog.timesunion.com/capitol/archives/266483/new-law-research-dogs-and-cats-must-go-up-for-adoption/