By AWFNJ
On March 22 New Jersey Governor Chris Christie was awarded the 2013 Paul Jolly Hero to Animals award at the Animal Welfare Federation of New Jersey’s 17th annual conference held in Long Branch. The conference this year was hosted at the Jersey Shore in honor of the work done after Superstorm Sandy by so many animal welfare professionals and volunteers.
Governor Christie was recognized in front of hundreds of animal welfare professionals who represent organizations throughout the state. The Governor was praised for how he addressed animal needs in press conferences prior to and during Superstorm Sandy and the establishment of a toll-free number so pet owners could report that a pet had been left behind and needed rescue. The promotion of this number during subsequent press conferences and media releases ensured that many worried pet owners could have a central reporting method which increased their pets’ chances of survival.
“The leadership that Governor Christie showed during Superstorm Sandy was truly remarkable” said AWFNJ President Niki Dawson “The Governor recognized that pets are a part of a family and he ensured that the people of New Jersey did not have to choose between leaving their pets behind or evacuating. We believe many families evacuated to safety because they could take their pets with them.”
