STATE OF NEW YORK 
EXECUTIVE CHAMBER 
Proclamation

Whereas, today, millions of people across New York and the entire United States know the immeasurable benefits, rewards and comforts of owning a domestic pet – or any of the various breeds of livestock suitable for domestication – and we therefore join to celebrate “Companion Animals Day” and support the worthy goals of this observance which helps raise awareness of the uniquely special and valuable place animals have in our lives; and

Whereas, beyond the warmth and affection that animal companionship brings to a person’s life are the less visible therapeutic benefits of introducing an animal into a person’s life – among them many noteworthy curative properties – including lowered blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reduced levels of depression, decreased loneliness, and the increased sense of calm and ease animals can instill in persons who have experienced a personal loss; and

Whereas, this rare relationship is based on the unseen communication between animals and humans, and the remarkably docile nature of many makes them uniquely suited for remedial health services and hospital therapy programs; and

Whereas, for those who are disabled, a pet can have critically important benefits that enable more independent living, and for those who have suffered paralysis or a debilitating illness, a highly-trained animal can provide life-saving services; and

Whereas, of significance are resources that address the needs of persons who are blind or visually impaired, and one of the most preeminent examples of an animal’s ability to serve mankind in important ways is visible in the success of programs and institutions for training guide dogs that improve the lives of blind and visually impaired men and women; and

Whereas, each year, thousands of superbly-bred seeing eye dogs are graduated from professional training schools, and they go on to provide specialized support services to individuals, offering them the freedom to walk about and travel safely; and

Whereas, faithful and smart, animals also are a growing part of our practical daily lives, as their inherent instincts and capabilities make them highly effective tools for the law enforcement and public security communities; and

Whereas, all New Yorkers join to support this worthy initiative which encourages us to consider the immense benefits associated with animal ownership and interaction, reminding us all to be conscientious and conscious of our responsibility to demonstrate humane and kind treatment toward animals so that, in return, they generate loyalty and trust toward humans;

Now Therefore, I, David A. Paterson, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby proclaim April 4, 2008 as

COMPANION ANIMALS DAY

in the Empire State.

Given under my hand and the Privy Seal of the State at the Capitol in the City of Albany this twenty-fifth day of March in the year two thousand eight.

David A. Paterson
Governor