New York State Senator Mark Grisanti Honored By Western New York Veterinary Medical Association

(BUFFALO, NEW YORK) – New York State Senator Mark Grisanti(R,I-60) will be honored tonight by the Western New York Veterinary Medical Association.

While awards from the WNYVMA are normally presented to area veterinarians in recognition of special efforts in serving the community, the board of directors periodically choose to go outside of the profession to honor an individual who has a special relationship with the veterinary community.

Senator Grisanti will receive an award in recognition for his commitment to the animals of Western New York and for serving as a leader in the prevention of animal abuse.

Earlier this year, Senator Grisanti was also awarded as one of ASPCA’s Humane legislators.

“I am truly humbled to receive an award from this outstanding organization,” said Senator Grisanti. “My efforts both in Albany and back home here in Buffalo to protect animals from senseless abuse are inspired by the many animal lovers who have contacted me since I was elected. What many people do not realize is that study after study shows people who abuse animals often commit acts of violence against other people,” said Senator Mark Grisanti.

Among the highlights of Senator Grisanti’s legislation that protects animals is a bill which calls for forward-thinking local governments to regulate commercial pet breeders and pet stores. The legislation addresses the ineffectiveness of New York’s “pet dealer” law, the proliferation of unregulated dog breeders in the state and the pet industry’s complicit support of inherently cruel, out-of-state puppy mills.

“I will continue to fight for animals who are unable to speak up and defend themselves and I encourage my constituents and other Western New York residents to continue to work with me to do whatever we can to prevent any further animal abuse,” said Senator Grisanti.

Senator Grisanti also stressed his “Four-Legged Legislative Priorities” earlier this year during Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month, which included his urging of his colleagues in the New York State Legislature to pass legislation that has been deemed “Phoenix’s Law, ” a bill which calls for increasing certain penalties for aggravated cruelty to animals by doubling the penalties as well as requiring the individual found guilty of the crime to undergo a psychiatric evaluation.

Senator Grisanti will receive the award as part of the Western New York Veterinary Medical Association’s General Membership meeting, which begins (tonight) at 5 p.m. on Thursday, November 14 at the Adam’s Mark Hotel on Church Street in the City of Buffalo.