2009 Assembly Joint Resolution 91
ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION
Relating to: declaring October to be Adopt a Shelter Pet Month.
Whereas, declaring the month of October to be Adopt a Shelter Pet Month in Wisconsin will encourage pet adoption at local animal shelters and raise awareness of the strain felt by local animal shelters because of the faltering economy and an overpopulation of animals, including dogs, cats, pet birds, and small reptiles; and
Whereas, many of these animals are euthanized because they are not reclaimed by their owners or adopted by new owners; and
Whereas, young, healthy, and friendly animals are often euthanized simply because there are not enough good homes for them, making it more important than ever to help local animal shelters by adopting a pet; and
Whereas, pet ownership has been shown to promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging exercise and socialization; and
Whereas, studies indicate that children who interact with pets have higher self-esteem and enhanced social skills, and can cope better with their emotions; and
Whereas, adopting a pet from a shelter and caring for that animal for the rest of its life is a responsible way to help reduce animal shelter overcrowding; and
Whereas, Wisconsin and the nation have an enormous problem with animal overpopulation, a problem that worsens as the economy declines; and
Whereas, shelter animals are usually sterilized prior to being released to new owners, thus reducing the problem of overpopulation; and
Whereas, state and local budget reductions have the potential to increase the strain on local animal shelter systems, threatening the lives of thousands of animals; and
Whereas, adopting pets from a local animal shelter is one way the people of Wisconsin can make a difference not only in their own lives, but also in the lives of animals in need; now, therefore, be it
Resolved by the assembly, the senate concurring, That the members of the Wisconsin legislature declare the month of October to be Adopt a Shelter Pet Month, encouraging the people of Wisconsin to save lives by adopting animals from their local animal shelters.
