IV 111th CONGRESS 1st Session H. RES. 767 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES September 23, 2009 Mr. Andrews submitted the following resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform RESOLUTION Expressing support for designation of a National Animal Rescue Day to create awareness, educate humans in the importance of adoption, and create a humane environment for any pet, including the importance of spaying and neutering of animals, and the encouragement of animal adoptions throughout the United States.

Whereas between 6,000,000 to 8,000,000 cats and dogs are put into shelters every year and between 3,000,000 and 4,000,000 are euthanized; Whereas the country has suffered a drastic economic crisis that has left animals behind in abandoned homes to die or left on the doorsteps of overpopulated shelters and rescues; Whereas a greater awareness of dog fighting and abuse encourages these animals to be put to sleep or left for shelters or rescues to rehabilitate them; Whereas there are between 4,000 to 6,000 animal shelters throughout the United States in need of pet supplies, medical supplies, blankets and towels, cleaning supplies, food, and educational materials about owning a pet, as well as information on how to screen unqualified applicants and provide the best pet match for a family; Whereas increased knowledge and awareness of animal rescue programs throughout the United States will significantly reduce the number of cats and dogs euthanized and reduce the number of animals returned to a shelter who have been rescued; Whereas a National Animal Rescue Day will reduce the problem of pet overpopulation, provide animals with good homes, and create awareness as well as financial and educational resources for the problems animal shelters face each day; and Whereas the first Saturday in October would be an appropriate day to designate as National Animal Rescue Day and celebrate it through events, festivals or Pawtographs signings which will increase revenues and pet adoptions throughout the United States: Now, therefore, be it

That the House of Representatives supports the designation of a National Animal Rescue Day to create awareness for animal rescue programs throughout the year, address the challenge of overpopulation through continued spaying and neutering of adopted pets, and bring Americans together as a Nation to support this common goal.