Urge NYCHA to Lift Pet Restrictions

In 2009, the NYC Housing Authority implemented a ban on certain dog breeds and dogs over 25 lbs. This policy change was devastating for dogs and their guardians as many were forced to give up their beloved companions, while shelter and rescues took on the flood of homeless dogs. Mayor de Blasio is considering changing the policy, and we need you to speak up for pets in public housing.

There's an important hearing about this issue TONIGHT and we need your help. We need to let NYCHA know that changing breed and weight restrictions on dogs, allowing two cats instead of just one, and waiving the pet fee for any resident who adopts a pet from Animal Care Centers of New York will benefit both residents and NYC animals! You can comment at tonight's hearing or write in comments via email

Breed and weight restrictions, like those currently in place, are shown to be ineffective and lead to the abandonment of dogs which contributes to the already overburdened shelters. Lifting the weight restriction would allow for a greater number of homeless animals to be adopted from Animal Care Centers, other not for profit shelters and rescue groups in NYC working to find homes for cats and dogs.

Additionally, cats are social animals and most do well with a companion. Cats are quiet, non-disruptive, and provide companionship to their guardians. Allowing tenants to have two cats will benefit tenants, cats, and NYC Animal Care Centers.

We also suggest that if any pet is adopted from NYC ACC that the $25 fee be waived to promote the adoption of the countless homeless pets in our city shelters and support the requirements in place requiring all pets be spayed, neutered, and licensed.


What: The public is invited to comment on the FY 2017 Draft Agency Annual Plan at a public hearing

Date: Wednesday, August 3, 2016

Time: 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Where: Borough Of Manhattan Community College
  199 Chambers Street
  New York, New York 10007

Details: Written comments regarding the FY 2017 Draft Agency Annual Plan are encouraged. Faxed submissions will be accepted at (212) 306-7905. Comments may also be emailed to [email protected]


You can attend the hearing to submit comments or submit comments via email or fax.

Please let NYCHA know how important these changes are for New York! We can make sure that NYCHA residents are able to benefit from the companionship and fulfillment of being pet guardians while addressing the overcrowding issues faced by animal shelters around the city. Use your voice - attend the hearing or submit written comments!

Do you like this post?