Delaware Makes Rescue Dog Official State Dog in ‘Historic Moment’ for Animal Welfare
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Animal lovers have achieved something remarkable: Delaware has officially declared the rescue dog as the state dog. The bill signing took place at the Wilmington campus of Humane Animal Partners (HAP), where Governor John Carney signed Senate Bill 37 into state law.
Senator Jack Walsh, an avid animal lover who introduced the bill to the Delaware Senate, expressed his sentiments about its passage. He stated, “Delaware animal shelters take in thousands of pets each year, all of whom are waiting to find their forever home.
Senate Bill 37 reaffirms the General Assembly’s support for animal welfare and our commitment to ensuring that every rescued pet will be cared for, loved, and protected against abuse.”
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The bill, hailed as a “historic moment in animal welfare” by HAP, received widespread support across the Legislative Assembly and the state Senate, passing unanimously. Prior to Senate Bill 37, the Golden Retriever held the designation of state dog under Title 29 of the Delaware Code.
With millions of dogs in shelters across the United States, this move carries significant public significance. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reports the substantial number of dogs in need of homes, further emphasizing the importance of this decision.
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HAP highlighted in a press release that by officially recognizing rescue dogs as the state dog, Delaware sends a powerful message of support to rescue animals and animal welfare organizations. Faithful Friends Animal Society, Brandywine Valley SPCA, and First State Animal Center SPCA were present at the bill signing, demonstrating their support and excitement.
The co-sponsors of the bill, Representative Bryan Shupe, Representative Kim Williams, Representative Franklin Cooke, and Representative Stephanie T. Bolden, also attended the event.
Patrick Carroll, the Chief Executive Officer of HAP, expressed his delight with the new law, saying, “We are thrilled to see SB 37 become law and make Delaware history.
It feels so fitting to recognize this milestone bill at Humane Animal Partners, formerly Delaware Humane Association and Delaware SPCA, where we have been serving the community and animals for 150 years.”
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This development coincides with HAP’s celebration of its 150th anniversary of “animal lifesaving work.” HAP, formerly known as Delaware SPCA and Delaware Humane Association before their merger last year, operates three adoption centers in Wilmington, Stanton/Christiana, and Rehoboth Beach, providing vital services to animals and the community.
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