S 1802 New York Senate · 2025 Regular Session

Prohibits ear clipping and tail docking of dogs unless deemed medically necessary to protect the life or health of the dog

This bill prohibits clipping dogs' ears or docking (cutting) their tails unless a licensed veterinarian deems it medically necessary to protect the dog's life or health. It directly affects dog owners, breeders, and veterinarians by requiring veterinary certification for these procedures and banning cosmetic alterations. Violations are misdemeanors: ear clipping without medical justification carries up to $1,000 fines, while tail docking for non-medical reasons incurs up to $500 fines. The law includes a grandfather clause allowing dogs already docked before 2026 to remain exempt.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2025
Committee Review
Floor Vote
Governor
Introduced Jan 13, 2025 Last action Jan 7, 2026
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Total actions
2
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0
Committee
2
Jan 7, 2026
Committee
REFERRED TO AGRICULTURE
upper
Jan 13, 2025
Committee
REFERRED TO AGRICULTURE
upper
1 primary · 1 co-sponsor

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