Pet Safety in the Albany Capital Region

August 19, 2025

Photo: Sable Cleopatra (Deer Head Chihuahua 3 months and 25 days)

1. Follow Local Licensing & Leashing Rules

All dogs over four months old must be licensed in Albany. You’ll need rabies vaccination proof (and spay/neuter documentation, where applicable) to get one from Albany City Clerk’s Office. Licenses & Forms | Albany, NY
Leash laws are enforced throughout the city. Dogs must be restrained with an adequate collar and leash or under immediate control—even in parks (except fenced dog parks), and handlers must be at least 12 years old.
Picking up after your dog is mandatory. Keep neighborhoods and public spaces tidy—use waste bags, and deposit them properly

2. Choose Training Wisely

For behavior help or obedience training, Albany has excellent force-free trainers. Notables include Anthony Cietek, Jamie Sharma, and Rachel Weaver, offering services like in-home, off-leash, reactive, and puppy training. Best Dog Trainers in Albany NY in 2025 | Sniffspot
Locally, Good Choice Dog Training uses reinforcement-based methods—humane, science-backed, and highly rated in the Capital District. Good Choice Dog Training | Albany, New York

3. Be a Responsible Walker

Use a short leash (4–6 ft) or a comfy harness when walking your dog for better control and safety.
Avoid distractions: Keep your dog close in high-traffic or busy areas. Carry treats to refocus their attention when needed.
Always clear up after your pup and keep them off private lawns and paths along the street.

4. Tap Into Local Pet Owner Support

PAWS (Pets Are Wonderful Support), based at the Albany Damien Center, offers essential pet care help—like food deliveries, grooming, vet transportation, and more—for pet owners living with HIV/AIDS. Pets Are Wonderful Support - Shanti Project
Through the Capital District Pet Care Resources Guide, pet owners can access low-cost spay/neuter, microchipping, pet food pantries, and bereavement support via local organizations like Mohawk Hudson Humane Society and the Animal Protective Foundation. petcareresourcesguide_0819.pdf

5. Know Who to Contact in Emergencies

Albany Animal Control handles reports regarding barking dogs, stray animals, or animal mistreatment—call (518) 462‑7107 or (518) 438‑4000 for help.