News Release
For Immediate Release
November 24, 2009
Contact: Aaron Zappia
(215) 657-7700

Greenleaf Receives Proclamation for Advancement of Animal Welfare 

Senator Greenleaf has recently received a proclamation from the Pennsylvania Veterinary Association and the University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine for his role in the advancement of veterinary medicine, public health, and animal welfare within the Commonwealth.

Senator Greenleaf has sponsored numerous pieces of legislation to protect animal welfare in Pennsylvania.

Senator Greenleaf's Dog Purchaser Protection Act (Puppy Lemon Law) of 1997, protects consumers who purchase an unhealthy dog at a pet store by requiring a refund, a replacement of the dog or a reimbursement for veterinary fees.

In 2004, the Senator was the author of legislation prohibiting greyhound racing in Pennsylvania, making it a misdemeanor of the first degree for a person to hold, conduct or operate a greyhound race for public exhibition or for profit.

The Senator's 1998 legislation amended a House Bill to make it clear that no live animal may be sold in conjunction with the operation of a lottery or contest.

Currently, Senator Greenleaf is working to strengthen the Puppy Lemon Law (SB 50), and also is the sponsor of Senate Bill 214, making it a misdemeanor of the first degree for a person to transmit or receive interstate or intrastate simulating of a greyhound race for commercial purposes. 

"It is a great honor to be recognized by the University of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Veterinary Association," said Senator Greenleaf.  "These organizations have been great partners in the fight to protect animals in the Commonwealth.  There remains much work to be done to improve animal welfare in our state.  I look forward to the passage of Senate Bills 50 and 214."