LOCKPORT, N.Y. – Niagara County is making strides to protect local pets.
In October, the Niagara County Legislature passed "The Niagara County Animal Abuser Registry Law." This law helps businesses and people identify animal abusers, so they can safely transfer an animal to a non-abuser.
Under this law, the Niagara County Sheriff's Office is also required to create an online registry of the names and information of those currently living in Niagara County and who have been convicted of crimes relating to animal abuse.
People who have been convicted of these crimes must register with the Sheriff's Office within five days of their release from custody and keep their information updated within five days of an address change. Those who violate these guidelines risk facing a misdemeanor charge and fines up to $5,000.
It is also a violation to for people and businesses, like animal shelters and pet sellers, to transfer an animal without checking the purchaser through this list.
To access the registry, you can visit the Niagara County Sheriff's web page.
