Gov. Jindal’s Puppy Promise Prompts PETA Appeal: Adopt, and Now Is Just Fine!

PETA Calls On Governor to Save a Life Right Away by Adopting, Not Buying

For Immediate Release:
June 25, 2015

Contact:
Shakirah Croce 202-483-7382

In a recent video announcement, Gov. Bobby Jindal promises that his three kids might be able to “have a puppy” in the future—prompting PETA to send a letter to the Louisiana governor this afternoon calling on him to adopt that puppy from an animal shelter, where so many animals sit waiting for someone to take them home and where those who lose out and end up with nowhere to go often end up having to be euthanized.

In the letter, PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—points out that every time a dog is purchased from a breeder or pet store, an equally loving and lovable dog loses his or her chance at finding a good home. Every year, 6 to 8 million animals enter shelters, and about half of these unwanted dogs and cats must be euthanized because of a lack of good homes.

“Gov. Jindal can make his kids happy right now and set a wonderful example for the country by saving the life of a puppy who may never find a home unless the Jindals make it happen,” says PETA President Ingrid E. Newkirk. “PETA would be happy to help the governor’s family find just the right dog in need—one whose life depends on being given a second chance—today or in the future.”

For more information, please visit PETA.org.

Note: PETA supports animal rights and opposes all forms of animal exploitation and educates the public on these issues. PETA does not directly or indirectly participate or intervene in any political campaign on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office or any political party.

PETA’s letter to Gov. Bobby Jindal follows.

June 25, 2015

The Honorable Bobby Jindal
Governor of Louisiana
Supriya Jolly Jindal

Via e-mail

Dear Governor and Mrs. Jindal,

We hope you are well. We understand that your children are interested in welcoming a dog into your family. Should the time come, we urge you to choose life and offer a home to a shelter dog, rather than contributing to the companion-animal homelessness crisis by buying from a breeder or a pet store.

Every year, animal shelters are forced to euthanize millions of wonderful, deserving dogs because of a lack of good homes. Every animal purchased rather than adopted takes a home away from a needy animal at a shelter who is waiting for a chance at the American dream of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

We hope you will set a wonderful example for the country by opening your home to a shelter dog. Please let us know if we can assist you.

Very truly yours,

Ingrid E. Newkirk
President