Memorializing Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim October 2026 as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month in the State of New York

Senate Resolution No. 2283

BY: Senator MURRAY

        MEMORIALIZING  Governor  Kathy  Hochul to proclaim
        October 2026 as Adopt a Shelter  Dog  Month  in  the
        State of New York

  WHEREAS,  Animal  shelters  and  rescue organizations throughout the
State of  New  York  provide  compassionate  care,  protection,  medical
treatment,  and  temporary housing for abandoned, neglected, abused, and
homeless dogs; and

  WHEREAS,  Countless  dedicated  shelter  employees,   veterinarians,
foster  families,  volunteers,  and  rescue advocates work tirelessly to
ensure that dogs  in  need  are  provided  with  safe  environments  and
opportunities to find permanent, loving homes; and

  WHEREAS,  Adopting  shelter dogs provides companionship and improves
the quality of  life  for  individuals  and  families,  reduces  shelter
overcrowding,   and   supports   responsible  pet  ownership  throughout
communities across New York State; and

  WHEREAS, Studies have  shown  that  companion  animals  can  provide
substantial  emotional,  psychological,  and  physical  health benefits,
including reducing stress, encouraging exercise and social  interaction,
and improving overall well-being; and

  WHEREAS, Adopt a Shelter Dog Month is observed each October to raise
awareness  of  the  thousands  of  dogs  residing in shelters and rescue
organizations and to encourage  individuals  and  families  to  consider
adoption when seeking companion animals; and

  WHEREAS,  Promoting  shelter  adoption  combats animal homelessness,
reduces euthanasia rates, and supports the important mission  of  animal
welfare organizations across the State; and

  WHEREAS,  It  is  fitting  and proper to recognize the importance of
shelter dog adoption and to commend those organizations and  individuals
who  dedicate  themselves to the care and placement of homeless animals;
now, therefore, be it

  RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its  deliberations  to
memorialize  Governor  Kathy  Hochul to proclaim October 2026 as Adopt a
Shelter Dog Month in the State of New York; and be it further

  RESOLVED, That copies of this  Resolution,  suitably  engrossed,  be
transmitted  to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York, and to such other individuals and organizations as may  be  deemed
appropriate.