Urging All Nations to Outlaw the Dog and Cat Meat Trade

Floor Speech

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Ms. TITUS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman, and also to my friend from Florida who sponsored this legislation.

I too rise in support of H. Res. 401. It is a resolution urging countries around the world to outlaw the dog and cat meat trade, and to recommit to enforcing existing laws against this horrible practice.

As you have heard, approximately 30 million dogs and tens of millions of cats are killed annually for human consumption; and many suffer from abuse and cruelty during their lifetime, facing painful deaths at the hands of these horrible meat dealers. We cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the extreme torment that they have to endure.

In the United States, we cherish dogs and cats, recognizing their many contributions as service and therapy animals, search and rescue assistants, and police dogs that aid with drug and bomb searches.

They provide airport security, are companions to our veterans, and are cherished family pets.

As a member of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, I am a proud cosponsor of this legislation, which enjoyed the support of 150 bipartisan cosponsors and passed the committee by a voice vote. I have worked hard in Congress to end the dog and cat meat trade, eliminate the use of dog leather, and protect our furry and feathered friends from undue harm and abuse.

Hundreds of constituents have written us about this issue, and they want the United States to speak up and set an example. Mr. Speaker, I believe this resolution does just that. I thank those who are responsible for bringing it, those who have lent their voice in support of it, and I look forward to seeing it pass today.

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