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.