Dog News

Gorham, NY Bans Puppy Mills

by ADMIN

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The Gorham, NY Town Board voted unanimously last night to impose a one year moratorium on all new dog breeding and dog kenneling facilities.

The ban was prompted by nationwide opposition to a plan that would have allowed for a commercial dog-breeding facility in the town. As news of the proposed facility spread, the town was inundated with letters, e-mails and calls from angry protesters.

puppy mill site
4446 Route 247, Gorham, NY
 
Curtis and Jolene Martin had sought permission to move their dog-breeding business from a rented property in Varick to a 20-acre parcel they had purchased in Gorham.

Mary Hauman, 63, of Benton, said she was relieved that the town adopted the moratorium.

“I’m just glad they are approaching this rationally and sanely,” said Hauman, who is opposed to the Martins’ plan.

The law will prohibit any modifications to existing breeding facilities in the town and will prevent conversion of the proposed facility that prompted the moratorium. The county had already advised against adopting the plan over safety and watershed-quality concerns.

The law will go into effect after it is filed with state officials. Violators could face a fine of $250 or 15 days in jail.