ALBANY, NY (WENY)-- Advocates who have for years been pushing for legislation to cut off the puppy mill pipeline in New York finally get to see their dream come true. Thursday, Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the puppy mill bill making the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits at retail pet stores illegal. 

“The ability to prohibit the sales of these animals in those retail outlets will have a profound impact on this industry as a whole, nationwide," said Bill Ketzer, Senior Director of State Legislature in the Eastern Division at ASPCA.

Ketzer said large puppy mills are primarily located in Midwestern states where animals are repeatedly bred from a very young age throughout their lives. The pets are also often subject to improper veterinary care, food supply, and socialization. 

He said some animals are housed in cages no larger than the size of a small dishwasher. 

Ketzer added that New York is a large market for the commercial breeders who operate puppy mills. And while this legislation doesn't stop the operations of puppy mills, it does hurt them financially. 

And some lawmakers think this legislation will have an even bigger effect. State Assemblywoman Linda B. Rosenthal said New York will serve as a role model for other states to prevent cruelty to animals. 

 "New York State will no longer allow brutally inhumane puppy mills around the country to supply our pet stores and earn a profit off animal cruelty and unsuspecting consumers," she said. 

Ketzer said his two dog's Geezer Butler and Jack, and his cat Abraham are excited about this victory for their four-pawed friends. 

“Not only are they over the moon with the passage of this legislation, the Governor’s signature. But they had faith in the Governor from day one," he said.