In honor of “Checkers Days” (so named for Nixon’s famous 1952 Checker’s Speech and his dog by the same name), we’d like to present 10 dogs who live in the political arena. Not only are they allowed in the offices at Capitol Hill, but many of them have owners who are as passionate about animal advocacy as they are about their own furry family members.
#1 – Lilly
Lilly’s owner, US Representative Jeff Denham (R-CA), is not the only one getting votes in their household. Last week, Lilly was the winner of the Animal Health Institute’s 2013 Cutest Pets on Capitol Hill Contest!
#2 – Maya
US Representative Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) doesn’t just love her dog Maya, she is also passionate about animal welfare, including passing legislation requiring military dogs to be brought home and not left behind.
#3 – Atticus and Scout
These beauties are owned by Congressman Mike Quigley (D-IL). Quigley is also an animal advocate and has publicly thanked the ASPCA for their efforts to find shelter animals homes.
#4 – Pepe
This cutie is owned and loved by Representative Ed Perlmutter (D-CO). Perlmutter was endorsed by the Humane Society during the last election because of his “strong support of animal protection policies.” (www.hslf.org)
#5 – Crosby
Crosby is the loyal friend and family member to Representative Tom Rooney (R-FL). He is a supporter of H.R. 3885, which would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to introduce a program for dog training therapy.
Toledo, United States.
