[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 82 (Thursday, May 16, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E613-E614]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     CELEBRATING WORLD DOG DAY 2019

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 16, 2019

  Mr. HASTINGS. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to rise today to 
recognize and celebrate World Dog Day 2019, which will take place on 
Saturday, May 18th in West Hollywood, CA. Created by my good friend, 
Lisa Vanderpump and the Vanderpump Dog Foundation in 2016, World Dog 
Day is a day focusing on the celebration of our furriest family members 
by recognizing the impact that dogs bring to our everyday lives. This 
celebration draws attention to the amazing, empathetic creatures that 
dogs are, while also raising awareness about global dog abuse that 
sadly still exists today. Our love for these animals, without the 
necessary activism, can't protect themselves from abuse or neglect. 
This event is so critically important in taking a stand against the 
abuse of animals and being united in the love that we hold so dear for 
our beloved dogs.
  Sadly, dogs and other animals across our nation and around the world 
suffer abuse from animal fighting, to torture, inhumane research 
testing, and abuse in puppy mills. We must advocate for all animals who 
cannot defend themselves and ensure their overall well-being and 
safety.
  In the 115th Congress, I was proud to work with Lisa, Dr. John Sessa, 
and the Vanderpump Dog Foundation on passing H. Res. 401, a resolution 
urging all nations to outlaw the dog and cat meat trade and to enforce 
existing laws against such trade. Their steadfast leadership and 
unwavering commitment to the welfare of animals is truly inspiring. 
Passage of H. Res. 401 was a culmination of years of hard work and 
dedication. From the bottom of my heart, I cannot thank them enough, 
along with the thousands of activists around the country and across the 
globe for all of their efforts. Lisa, John, and the Vanderpump Dog 
Foundation have never wavered in their commitment in the fight against 
the global dog meat trade. I am honored to stand shoulder-to-shoulder 
with them to champion this effort, sending a strong signal to the world 
that the welfare of animals must be taken seriously.
  As we celebrate World Dog Day 2019, we must come together to raise 
awareness about global dog abuse and work to end this horrific and 
barbaric practice once and for all.
  Madam Speaker, I want to congratulate Lisa Vanderpump, Dr. John 
Sessa, and the Vanderpump Dog Foundation on what I am certain will be 
another successful World Dog Day. I look forward to our continued work 
on animal welfare issues for years to come.

[[Page E614]]

  

                          ____________________