LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to declare
April 11, 2016, as Pet Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with
the observance of National Pet Day

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
appreciate the service, companionship, loyalty and happiness pets bring
to the lives of their owners; and
WHEREAS, Pet and Family Lifestyle Expert Colleen Paige founded
National Pet Day in 2005 to celebrate the joy pets bring to their
owners' lives and to create public awareness about the plight of many
different kinds of animals awaiting a forever home in shelters and
rescue centers all around the globe; and
WHEREAS, Millions of animals across New York and the United States are
abused, abandoned and neglected, and it is imperative that awareness is
raised; and
WHEREAS, The citizens of New York State are reminded of and encouraged
to practice responsible pet ownership; and
WHEREAS, This Legislative Body recognizes the numerous health benefits
of pet ownership, which include lowered blood pressure, stress
reduction, social support, exercise and increased happiness; and
WHEREAS, Raising awareness of animal abuse as well as recognizing the
benefits of responsible pet ownership will lead to a reduction in animal
cruelty, as well as an increase in the overall health and happiness of
humans and animals alike, and as such it is appropriate to dedicate one
week of the year to our pets; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to declare April 11, 2016, as Pet
Day in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observance of
National Pet Day; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York, and Colleen Paige, Founder of National Pet Day.