Declare Animal Advocacy Day

June 6, 2017, as Animal Advocacy Day in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that all living creatures have value and to recognize and appreciate the service, companionship, loyalty, unconditional love and happiness animals bring to the lives of New Yorkers; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 6, 2017, as Animal Advocacy Day in the State of New York; this year marks the 7th Annual Animal Advocacy Day; and WHEREAS, Animals are a beloved and cherished member of many of our families and play a positive role in the lives of so many of New York's citizens; and WHEREAS, Pets offer companionship in more than 71 million United States households, and studies have shown companion animals can provide a variety of health benefits; and WHEREAS, Companion animals provide comfort and assistance to seniors and people with disabilities; and WHEREAS, Companion animals play an important role helping police, fire departments, and search and rescue efforts to keep our citizens safe; and WHEREAS, Animal abuse, cruelty and neglect result in unnecessary pain and suffering to animals; and WHEREAS, Violence against animals is a bridge crime that can and has led to violence against people; and WHEREAS, In 1999, a statewide petition drive was initiated to help pass the landmark Buster's Law which created the felony category of "aggravated cruelty to animals," punishable by up to two years in prison and a $5,000 fine; prior to this bill becoming law, animal cruelty resulted in only misdemeanor penalties, if any charges were imposed at all; and WHEREAS, It is vital that we encourage empathy and compassion for our companion animals, and that we provide a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves; and WHEREAS, Previous Animal Advocacy Day events promoted the importance of increased penalties against the viewing of animal fighting and criminalizing materials and paraphernalia used to train animals for fighting, and advocating its passage into law; and WHEREAS, On June 6, 2017, New York animal advocates, supporters, pet owners, and citizens come together to support, protect, and acknowledge all animals' positive contribution to society and the family of New York; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim June 6, 2017, as Animal Advocacy Day in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New York.