In recognition of Adopt a Shelter Pet Week in Pennsylvania, Senators Rich Alloway II (R-33) and Andy Dinniman (D-19) will hold a press conference on Tuesday, October 22 to announce a package of bills to protect pets.

The senators will announce the pet protection package during a press conference at 11 a.m., followed by a Bring Your Dog to Harrisburg rally on the Capitol steps at 11:30 a.m. Dog owners from across the state are invited to attend the rally with their beloved family pets to support the humane treatment of animals.

“Despite the millions of loving families in Pennsylvania who have opened their homes to pets, many animals across the state still suffer from neglect, mistreatment and abuse,” Alloway said. “By bringing pet owners together with their legislators, we can help raise awareness of these issues and work toward solutions that will improve the lives of animals who will eventually become cherished members of our families.”

“We want Pennsylvanians from all corners of the state to join us on October 22 to show Harrisburg just how much the humane treatment of our dogs, cats and other animals means to all of us,” Dinniman said. “It is time to strengthen the penalties for animal cruelty and for the Commonwealth to recognize pets as cherished members of our families rather than mere agricultural commodities. We need to show strong vocal support for such changes on the Capitol steps.”

The press conference will be held on the Capitol steps. In case of inclement weather, the press conference will be held in the Capitol Media Center. The Bring Your Dog to Harrisburg rally will be held on the Capitol steps, rain or shine.

Members of the public who attend the rally should keep all dogs leashed and bring adequate food, water and waste disposal supplies for their pets. Also, participants should keep in mind that dogs are not allowed in the Capitol Building.