A dog and a brown cow touching noses.

Animals

Working to ensure animal and public health in New York State.
Protecting Animal Health in New York State

The Department’s Division of Animal Industry is responsible for ensuring animal and public health through control and eradication of infectious and contagious diseases in New York State livestock and poultry and implementation of pre-harvest food safety measures at the farm level. The Department has staff in Albany and inspectors and veterinarians located across the state who administer animal disease programs and conduct surveillance for animal diseases of significance to agriculture.

Import/Export

The Department oversees the proper requirements for livestock, poultry, and companion animals being imported or exported from the state.

Requirements vary for the type of animal; however, owners generally need to supply a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and proof of identification.

Owners must also meet testing requirements for disease before they can move their animals.

Disease Surveillance
Find Animal Industry Field Staff

The Department's veterinarians and inspectors administer animal disease programs and conduct surveillance for animal diseases of significance to agriculture.

Report a Disease

It is critically important to report animal disease as soon as possible. Diseases must be reported when the disease is recognized but the specific disease or agent is unknown, or when a specific reportable disease has been identified. 

Spotlight

Fair Information

New York is home to more than 50 county and youth fairs that operate from July through early October.

The Department sets health requirements for animals at county fairs and the New York State Fair. 

Guidance For Municipalities
Municipalities are responsible for appointing dog control officers, establishing dog shelters or pounds, licensing dogs, and responding to complaints regarding noise, sanitation, and animal cruelty.
Emergency Management
Has your farm been impacted by a natural disaster? There may be resources available to help you recover.