OLEAN, N.Y. — More than $7.5 million in state funding will help renovate more than 20 animal shelters across New York.
It’s part of what’s called the Companion Animal Care Standards Act for Shelters and Rescues. It raises the standards of care for both shelters and rescues across the state.
Governor Kathy Hochul signed these changes into law in December. Shelters have until 2025 to be in compliance. That might seem like a lot of time, but it's not.
The staff at Cattaraugus County SPCA tends to 150 animals. They are in the process of planning out either renovations, an expansion, or moving to be in compliance with the new law.
In response, the shelter is doing a rehoming campaign. Spectrum News 1 met Jethro on Tuesday morning. He's a 4 1/2-year-old terrier/plot hound mix who is full of energy and loves belly rubs.
If you just want to play with animals, they are always in need of volunteers.