NEW ORLEANS (Oct. 19, 2010) — The Humane Society Legislative Fund, the nation’s leading political advocacy organization for animal welfare, today launched a television advertisement supporting the reelection of U.S. Sen. David Vitter.

The ad, which cites Vitter’s leadership on animal protection policies, is airing on Louisiana television. The group has also sent mailings to thousands of animal welfare supporters in the state.

“David Vitter has been an effective leader in protecting animals and fighting against cruelty,” said Michael Markarian, president of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. “He is working to protect pets and wildlife, and standing up for the values of kindness and compassion. We urge Louisiana voters who care about the humane treatment of animals to support David Vitter.”

The 30-second TV ad shows images that highlight Vitter’s record of leadership on key animal protection issues, such as cockfighting and puppy mills. Among his many actions to protect animals, Vitter has:

• Co-sponsored a bill to strengthen the federal law against dogfighting and cockfighting. (P.L. 110-22)
• Led efforts to protect pets and wildlife in the wake of Hurricane Katrina and the BP oil spill.
• Sponsored a bill to protect dogs and crack down on large-scale puppy mill abuses. (S. 3424)
• Sponsored a bill to ban trafficking in dangerous primates as exotic pets. (S. 462)
• Supported a state prohibition on cockfighting in Louisiana.

HSLF is a nonpartisan organization that endorses Democratic, Republican and Independent candidates. HSLF evaluates candidates based on two overarching criteria: their viability and their stands on animal protection policies. HSLF does not judge candidates on party affiliation or any other issue. For a complete list of endorsements, go to hslf.org/voter_guide.

Media Contact: Kristen Eastman, 301/721-6440, keastman@hslf.org

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The Humane Society Legislative Fund is a social welfare organization incorporated under section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code and formed in 2004 as a separate lobbying affiliate of The Humane Society of the United States. The HSLF works to pass animal protection laws at the state and federal level, to educate the public about animal protection issues, and to support humane candidates for office. On the web at www.hslf.org.

Paid for by Humane Society Legislative Fund and not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee. HSLF, 519 C Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002.