Senator Brubaker visits Humane Society, animal rescue in Harrisburg

Goal is to learn more about potential effects of proposed Dog Law regulations

HARRISBURG – State Senator Mike Brubaker (R-Lancaster) continued yesterday to learn about the effect the state Department of Agriculture's proposed changes to the Dog Law regulations may have on various organizations that work with dogs on a daily basis.

"It is important to understand these proposed regulations and what they will mean from all perspectives as we review them," Brubaker said. "We need to engage all operations in a meaningful dialogue that addresses what individuals like about the proposal and also what concerns they have."

As part of the state's regulatory review period, the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee, which Brubaker chairs, will have the opportunity to consider the regulatory changes the Agriculture Department has suggested.           

Brubaker toured both the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area, Inc., at 7790 Grayson Road, as well as an in-home animal rescue run by Dona Bernardi in Harrisburg, part of the Furry Friends Network based out of Boiling Springs. Robin Scherer, President and co-founder of the Network, joined as well.

The Humane Society of Harrisburg Area, Inc., is a nonprofit organization that provides care for homeless animals as well as education for the community in Dauphin, Cumberland, Perry and northern York counties. It is an open admission shelter and takes in up to 10,000 animals on an annual basis.

"We were honored to have the Senator and members of his staff visit the Humane Society," said Amy Kaunus, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area, Inc.  "We hope that after touring our facility, Senator Brubaker has a better understanding of the challenges these regulations present for the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area and other humane societies across the state of Pennsylvania." 

The Furry Friends Network, also a nonprofit organization, networks with friends and families to find permanent, indoor homes for unwanted animals. "We are delighted the Senator took the time to come to our home to learn firsthand how rescues work," Bernardi said.