Colorado Designates Shelter Cats and Dogs as the State's Official Pets
Let's all give a rousing "paws up" to the state of Colorado for recently designating shelter cats and dogs as their official state pets. According to the Huffington Post, Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper also deserves a huge shout out for signing a law mandating special police training directed at preventing the unnecessary shooting of animals.
Although this Colorado legislative term has been rather scrappy, with much dissension between the ranks, what's exciting about the passage of these measures is that all 100 lawmakers supported the training legislation. Designating cats and dogs as official state pets was an issue that everyone was able to agree upon without fighting tooth and claw. This bill also gives shelter pets an extra measure of status, which these homeless animals richly deserve.
It seems that our furry companions can and do have a soothing and positive effect on lawmakers when it comes to finding ways to protect them!
The state pet proposal was brought about by school children, according to supporters, so they could learn more about politics and how the legislative process works. However, the measure was not initially given much credence; in fact it caused major dissension among the ranks. As a result it almost died in the House committee, but in spite of apparent obstacles dog lovers prevailed... and both the dog lovers and animals were ultimately victorious!
Moreover, this measure may be one that is totally unique. During the discussion concerning the bill, the Executive Director of the Major Cities Chiefs Association, (an organization that represents police chiefs and sheriffs) remarked that he had never heard of requirements in any other state or local governments.
http://www.petside.com/article/colorado-designates-shelter-cats-and-dogs-states-official-pets
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