I’d like to make a complaint about the conditions/treatment of animals in a pet store. What should I do?
In New York City
New York State is in the beginning stages of the pet dealer licensing and inspection process. In the meantime, if you suspect criminal acts of animal cruelty taking place, such as intentionally harming an animal or depriving an animal of food, water or medical care, please call the ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement department at (212) 876-7700, ext. 4450. For other pet store complaints, please call the Department of Health at (212) 676-2115.
Outside of New York City
We urge those who do not live in New York to contact any or all of the following organizations:
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Your local SPCA or humane society, which may have the power to investigate such matters in your area. For a listing of animal agencies in your area, visit ASPCA.org.
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your local Health Department/Board of Health, as the abuse of animals in pet stores and breeder facilities often involves unsafe or unsanitary conditions for humans
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your local Better Business Bureau
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local law enforcement officials
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local media organizations
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local politicians
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the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which oversees wholesale breeders of dogs and cats. It is best to contact this agency by mail.
Headquarters:
USDA/APHIS/AC
4700 River Rd., Unit 84
Riverdale, MD 20737
(301) 734-7833
ace@aphis.usda.gov
Western Regional Offices:
USDA/APHIS/AC
PO Box 915004
Fort Worth, TX 76115
(817) 885-6923
acwest@aphis.usda.gov
USDA/APHIS/AC
9580 Micron Ave., Ste. J
Sacramento, CA 95827
(916) 857-6205
acwest@aphis.usda.gov
USDA/APHIS/AC
2150 Centre Ave.
Building B, Mailstop 3W11
Fort Collins, CO 80526
acwest@aphis.usda.gov
Eastern Regional Office:
USDA/APHIS/AC
920 Main Campus Dr., Ste. 200, Unit 3040
Raleigh, NC 27606
(919) 716-5532
aceast@aphis.usda.gov