New Info Says Congress Can Agree On One Thing: It Loves Pets!

Lori Ennis
by Lori Ennis
Even though it seems like Congress can’t get along with each other, one thing’s agreed upon: Congress loves its pets, according to new survey information conducted on behalf of the HABRI.


New survey results have been released and confirm that Congress is happy to have pets cross the lines into work, as they remain a pet-friendly workplace. The survey was sponsored by Nestle Purina PetCare and conducted on behalf of HABRI, and included results from in-person interviews of House and Senate members in August.


Related: HABRI Research Finds Emails to Dog Owners Prompts More Exercise


Though the representatives often have a hard time getting a solid majority on just about any issue these days, most do agree that pets are welcome in the workplace on Capitol Hill! More than 80% of those who responded said they welcome pets in the workplace during the Congressional recesses, when Congress is in session or both time periods. This contrasts with information from the Society for Human Resource Management that shows only 7% of American workplaces allow pets.


The results seemed to cross party lines and geographic areas–showing that Congress actually can have bipartisan support for issues (cough, cough).


Purina’s Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Kurt Venator, DVM, Ph.D., says that pet relationships can all be agreed on because most of us know that life is better with pets. Most know about the benefits pets bring to our health and happiness, and we want that wherever we are.


In 1800, congressional rules prohibited pets on Chamber floors, but since then, pets have been allowed nearly everywhere else they want to be, and it’s a given that there are few limitations on pets in congressional buildings. Assistant Senate Historian Dan Hold said recently that senators used to bring hunting dogs into the chamber to sit by their feet as the floor debates rolled on.


Related: New Bill Passed to Bring Military Dogs Back Home


Today, some pets even have their own business cards! Oklahoma Representative Jim Bridenstine’s dog Oliver has his own calling card, calling him a “Spaniel and Statesman,” and often pets are announced when they arrive at Congress, receiving near-royal treatment!


On October 4, HABRI and the Pet Leadership Council will join to celebrate Pet Night on Capitol Hill, an event that will have treat stations for both pets and humans. If you’re in the nation’s capital, give it a check-out. And, while you’re there, suggest that Congress get it together and cross party lines more often to come to compromises.


As if loving on pets requires anyone to compromise anything…

Lori Ennis
Lori Ennis

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