NY S04574

Amends the definition of "aggravated cruelty to animals" under Agriculture and Markets Law Section 353-a to include conduct committed with the use of a weapon as a third category of aggravated cruelty.

Expands aggravated cruelty definition to include conduct intended to cause "serious physical injury" in addition to extreme physical pain.

Maintains existing categories of aggravated cruelty: conduct intended to cause extreme physical pain or serious physical injury, and conduct carried out in an especially depraved or sadistic manner.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.