June 4, 2024 — Members of Congress, celebrity animal lover Carson Kressley, and courageous canines came together Tuesday to support the Working Dog Health and Welfare Act and The PETSAFE Act

Today, a special group of inspiring dogs walked, sniffed, and zoomed down the halls of Congress to advocate for their fellow four-legged heroes.

American Humane hosted Canines on Capitol Hill on Tuesday to educate lawmakers and their staff on two bipartisan bills to protect animals: The Working Dog Health and Welfare Act (S.2414) and The PETSAFE Act (H.R.5175).

At the crowded event, members of Congress met four extraordinary dogs showcasing the life-changing—and even lifesaving—ways that animals support Americans and serve our country.

For example, Summer—a retired explosives-detection dog who deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq with the Marines before joining the Amtrak Police Department—called attention to the thousands of working dogs who quietly support federal agencies.

The program featured remarks from celebrity animal lover Carson Kressley, co-host of American Humane’s Hero Dog Awards® broadcast, and Dr. Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane. To close out the morning, the VIDs —”Very Important Dogs”—signaled their endorsement for the two bills, stamping each with a paw print of approval.

“It was inspiring to see lawmakers from both sides of the aisle come together to meet these incredible dogs and learn more about two important pieces of legislation,” said Dr. Ganzert. “At a time when there’s so much partisan divide, protecting animals is one important cause we can all get behind.”

“I am a proud animal lover, but dogs hold a particularly special place in my heart. Dogs are more than just a man’s best friend – they are guides, protectors, and at times – they are lifesavers,” said Rep. Mike Quigley (D-IL). While we often describe our human service members and law enforcement as heroes, our working dogs also deserve some well-earned recognition.”

“As a Co-Chair of the Animal Protection Caucus, I believe we as legislators have a duty to protect man’s best friend and ensure humane treatment for our pets and canine heroes,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.). “I am proud to support both the Working Dog Health and Welfare Act and the PETSAFE Act, which will both make great strides in the care of dogs impacted by natural disasters, and the well-being of federal working dogs.”

“Whether they are saving lives in natural disasters or serving with law enforcement, working animals are vital members of our community and should be recognized and respected,” said Rep. Dina Titus (D-NV). I am proud to introduce legislation to guarantee proper care and compassion for our canine companions, and I applaud American Humane for their ongoing efforts to strengthen service animal welfare.”

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus for the Humane Bond, I’ve been continually impressed by the work of American Humane as it strives to strengthen the bond between people and animals,” said Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL). “This organization of passionate animal advocates are working to unleash the power of our connection with animals while creating healthy, sustainable and humane communities.  I’m particularly grateful for the organization’s efforts to recognize the tremendous role that service and hero dogs play in our armed forces and community to make us safe.”

Canines on Capitol Hill attendees included:

• Members of Congress and staff, including:
  • Congressman Aaron Bean (R-FL)
  • Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL)
  • Congressman Tony Cardenas (D-CA)
  • Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-CA)
  • Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH)
  • Congressman Bill Keating (D-MA)
  • Congresswoman Mary Miller (R-IL)
  • Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-ME)
  • Congressman Greg Pence (R-IN)
  • Congressman Scott Perry (R-PA)
  • Congresswoman Delia Ramirez (D-IL)
  • Congresswoman Deborah Ross (D-NC)
  • Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (D-OR)
  • Congresswoman Michelle Steel (R-CA)
  • Congresswoman Susan Wild (D-PA)
• Robin Ganzert, president and CEO of American Humane
• Carson Kressley, television personality and co-host of American Humane’s Hero Dog Awards® broadcast
• American Humane Hero Dog Awards winners and their handlers:
  • Retired U.S. Air Force Sgt. Micah Jones and Summer, a retired explosives-detection dog who deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq with the Marines before joining the Amtrak Police Department.
  • Katie Harris and her service dog Moxie, the mini Goldendoodle who saved her life.
  • Kelly Brownfield and Maverick, a Great Dane serving as a therapy dog for the United Service Organizations (USO).
  • Jeff Callaway and his rescue dog Ethan, who overcame great odds to become an ambassador for other shelter pets.

About American Humane

American Humane is the United States’ first national humane organization and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare, helping to verify the humane treatment of more than one billion animals across the globe each year. Founded in 1877, American Humane has been First to Serve™ the cause of animals and for over 145 years has been at the forefront of virtually every major advance in the humane movement. For more information or to support our lifesaving work, please visit www.AmericanHumane.org, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram and subscribe to our channel on YouTube for the latest breaking news and features about the animals with whom we share our Earth.