In part of new state legislation, the sale of guinea pigs will soon be prohibited across all five boroughs of NYC, reports Spectrum News. This adds to another one of NYC’s wacky laws, like the “bagel tax” you might not even be aware you’re paying.
As of Tuesday, April 11, numerous bills were passed by the City Council declaring the sales ban on the friendlier rodent in city pet stores. Though pet stores will be prohibited to sell guinea pigs, adoptions through animal shelters and rescue organizations will remain legal.
Apparently, animal shelters have long been “overwhelmed” by the amount of “surrendered guinea pigs” (already 200 this year!). Therefore, Katy Hansen of the Animal Care Centers of NYC believes this to be great news for shelters.
“Pre-pandemic in 2019, we averaged a little under 400 guinea pigs a year coming in throughout the year. And in 2022, it was 825 guinea pigs coming in,” Hansen said. She believes those who took in the animal as a companion during quarantine didn’t fully understand the undertaking and responsibilities of owning and caring for a guinea pig.
“Prohibiting the sale of guinea pigs in pet shops will bring relief to animal shelters. Other rescuers have experienced a surge in abandon and surrender guinea pigs in the past three years,” said Adrienne Adams, the speaker of the New York City Council.
So will you be adopting a guinea pig anytime soon?