'Rescue Dog' Proposed as NY's Next State Pooch

As false, preconceived notions about our nation's homeless pets begin to fall away, our country's collective consciousness is gradually changing. One stereotype that, sadly, still prevails in some people's minds is that shelter pets are somehow "damaged." It's a long-standing belief that they were abandoned because there's something wrong with them, but, this couldn't be less true.

And in Assemblyman Micah Kellner's new bill, he's looking to shed these silly stereotypes and champion the joys of shelter dogs! This proposed legislation asks that the rescue dog be recognized as the official state pooch of New York. The bill is designed to be in part, educational, helping to introduce people to all the benefits of adopting dogs from shelters.

As the bill states: "Dogs do so much good for the community: they give us a sense of optimism, safeguard us from depression and loneliness, and break down the barriers that isolate us from one another. Their presence improves our health, protects us from danger, and teaches us about caring and responsibility. And they ask for so little in return."

Additionally, the term "rescue dogs" incorporates all breeds, from purebred to mutt.

So please, show your support for this terrific legislation! And click here to read the full text of the proposed bill.