More than 70 percent of Minnesotans own at least one pet–it’s clear Minnesota residents value their dogs, cats, and other pets. That’s why Animal Humane Society and a coalition of 22 other animal welfare groups and human service organizations – including Animal Folks, Ruff Start Rescue, Secondhand Hounds, Pet Haven, Tri County Humane Society, Community Emergency Service, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness – are calling on members of the state legislature to support the creation of a Minnesota Companion Animal Board. The bill to create the board is authored by Senator Carrie Ruud (R-Breezy Point), and it has tripartisan support from Democrats, Republicans and Independents.

“Companion animals play a vital role in the lives of people across the state, and for many, these animals are so much more than pets,” said. Ruud. “This bill creates the Companion Animal Board, so that we have oversight on issues pertaining to companion animals. This board will provide leadership, direction, and expertise that meet the needs of companion animals and their owners.”

State government is currently structured around livestock for food and fiber production (Department of Agriculture), wildlife management (Department of Natural Resources) and animal diseases (Board of Animal Health). The Companion Animal Board would provide specific expertise and skills to lead and respond to issues pertaining to companion animals and allow the State of Minnesota to more effectively plan for and respond to the health and welfare needs of companion animals and to the efforts of local communities, citizens, and organizations that care for these animals.

The legislation is also supported by not just animal welfare nonprofits, but local governments, human service agencies, and thousands of Minnesotans across the state.