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PetMD did a bit of fact-checking on the two leading Presidential/VP tickets to see which of the slates is the most pet friendly. Â Here’s a quick look at how things break out according to the website:
Hillary Rodham Clinton, Democratic presidential nominee:
*Has an entire page on her website about how she plans to “promote animal welfare and protect animals from cruelty and abuse.”
*As President, she would “Protect pets and domesticated animals by making sure facilities like animal breeders, zoos, and research institutions create plans to protect the animals in their care during disasters; strengthen regulations of ‘puppy mills’ and other harmful commercial breeding facilities; and support the Preventing Animal Cruelty and Torture (PACT) Act.”
*Co-sponsored the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act of 2007, as well as a bill to amend the Horse Protection Act, when in the Senate.
*Has previously received a perfect score from the Humane Society’s Legislative Fund. In a press release in 2007 for the HSLF, Clinton said, “Our policies should reflect the important role that animals play in our lives and our environment. I believe we should treat animals humanely and that is why I support anti-cruelty laws.”
*Has three dogs (Seamus, Maisie, and Tally).
Donald Trump, Republican presidential nominee:
*To date has not taken a stance on animal rights or freedoms throughout his campaign.
*Listened to the pleas of animals rights activists and shut down a cruel horse diving act in Atlantic City, although his other actions regarding animal rights haven’t been as helpful.
*Took to Twitter to express his disappointment in Ringling Brothers for getting rid of their elephants.
*Has been a vocal supporter of his sons and their big game hunting in Africa.
*Reportedly has a dog named Spinee.
Tim Kaine, Democratic vice-presidential running mate:
*Has not done animal rights work that has received national attention (yet), but, the vice presidential candidate did made his mark when he was the governor of Virginia.
*Given a paltry 38 percent from the HLSF during the 113th Congress in Review.
*Adopted their dog—a terrier mix named Gina—from Richmond SPCA, where he was applauded in their blog for being “a compassionate and unpretentious friend to animals,”  as well as a “…a great friend to the Richmond SPCA over many years and has helped to make our community one of the most progressive and life saving ones in the country for homeless animals.”
*An “avid outdoorsman,” says on his own website that he was pleased to pass a new farm bill in 2014 with his colleagues.
Mike Pence, Republican vice-presidential running mate:
*Pence was given a 0 percent approval rating in the 2012 HSLF scorecard for taking anti-animal stances on both the Hunting in National Parks vote and the Emotional Support Animals vote.
*Indiana Governor welcomed Blue Buffalo with open arms to his state.
*Has a 4 percent lifetime score from the League of Conservation Voters for environmental issues, including wildlife.
*Has three pets in total, a dog (Maverick) and two cats (Oreo and Pickle).
Of course, we are still big fans of the Dolly/Adora ticket with their platform, “Fix America,” but the most important thing it to get out and vote and be sure to let your legislators know what issues are the most critical to you.  Vote on November 8.
