Assembly Resolution No. 979

BY: M. of A. Rosenthal

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
February 2026, as Spay/Neuter Awareness Month in the
State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize
official days that are set aside to increase awareness for the
caretaking and well-being of our companion animals; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim February 2026, as
Spay/Neuter Awareness Month in the State of New York, in conjunction
with the observance of National Spay/Neuter Awareness Month; and

WHEREAS, Companion animals provide meaningful companionship,
emotional support, and numerous health and social benefits to
individuals and families in our community; and

WHEREAS, Unplanned and uncontrolled breeding of cats and dogs
contributes to pet overpopulation, resulting in crowded animal shelters,
increased numbers of stray animals, and the euthanasia of healthy,
adoptable pets each year; and

WHEREAS, Spaying and neutering cats and dogs reduces the risk of
certain cancers and other health problems, can decrease roaming and
other nuisance behaviors, and can increase an animal's overall quality
of life and longevity; and

WHEREAS, Spay/neuter surgery is a safe, humane, and effective method
of preventing unwanted litters and is widely endorsed by veterinarians,
national and local animal welfare organizations, and responsible pet
guardians; and

WHEREAS, February has been widely recognized by communities and
legislative bodies across the United States as "Spay/Neuter Awareness
Month," often in coordination with "World Spay Day," to increase public
awareness of the importance of spaying and neutering companion animals;
and

WHEREAS, New York State has a dense network of shelters and
veterinary providers: one recent overview notes nearly 600 animal
related organizations in the state, many of which either require
spay/neuter before adoption or offer subsidized surgeries, which
strongly pushes overall spay/neuter rates up; and

WHEREAS, It is imperative that there be greater awareness of the
spaying and neutering of pets to contribute to longer and healthier
lives for our companion animals throughout our State and Nation; now,
therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim February 2026, as
Spay/Neuter Awareness Month in the State of New York; and be it further


RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York; and to local animal shelters, rescue groups, and veterinary
organizations.