N.Y. Agriculture & Markets Law Section 331
Abandonment of certain animals

An animal is deemed to be abandoned when it is placed in the custody of a veterinarian, veterinary hospital, boarding kennel owner or operator, stable owner or operator, or any other person for treatment, board, or care and:

1.

Having been placed in such custody for a specified period of time the animal is not removed at the end of such specified period and a notice to remove the animal within ten days thereafter has been given to the person who placed the animal in such custody, by means of registered letter mailed to the last known address of such person, or:

2.

Having been placed in such custody for an unspecified period of time the animal is not removed within twenty days after notice to remove the animal has been given to the person who placed the animal in such custody, by means of a registered letter mailed to the last known address of such person.

3.

The giving of notice as prescribed in this section shall be deemed a waiver of any lien on the animal for the treatment, board or care of the animal but shall not relieve the owner of the animal removed of his contractual liability for such treatment, board or care furnished.

Source: Section 331 — Abandonment of certain animals, https://www.­nysenate.­gov/legislation/laws/AGM/331 (updated Sep. 22, 2014; accessed Jan. 3, 2026).

Green check means up to date. Up to date

Verified:
Jan. 3, 2026

Last modified:
Sep. 22, 2014

§ 331. Abandonment of certain animals's source at nysenate​.gov

Link Style