Legislation under consideration in New York would require pet groomers to obtain a state license and also would regulate certain pet-grooming practices.

Assembly Bill 9102 and its companion bill, Senate Bill 2569, would establish a licensing bureau , in cooperation and consultation with the New York State Departments of Health and Education, to develop a training program and testing procedures for applicants. To qualify for the license examination, an applicant must be 16 years of age, be of good moral character and have completed 10th grade. Individuals who meet those requirements, complete the necessary training and pass the examination would be granted a license upon payment of a $20 biennial registration fee.

Under the proposed legislation, all current pet groomers would be allowed to operate but would have to apply for a license within one year from when the bill goes into effect.

In addition, the legislation would require pet groomers to ask and know every pet’s veterinarian and any special needs of the animal. Groomers also would be required to keep and maintain records for two years from the date of service regarding each animal cared for and its owner.

The bill also states that no pet shall be left alone at the grooming facility and that a drying cage may never be used.

Licenses could be declined, revoked or suspended for any of the following reasons:

•  Misstatement in the license application.
•  Improper recordkeeping.
•  Improper business practices.
•  Violation of any law relating to the humane treatment of animals.

Grooming facilities also would have to pass a yearly inspection.
Any violation of the legislation would be a civil offense carrying penalties ranging from $100 to $1,000 for each violation.

The New York legislature will most likely not address the bills this year, according to the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (Washington). If not, the bills will carry over to next year’s session. [November 2007 PET AGE]