Jun 26, 2025 - News

A lobbyist you'll want to snuggle joins push for pet protections

Mike Deehan

A sitting dog — Marlena has a meeting with the chairman later. Photo: Mike Deehan/Axios.

Lobbyists working the hallways of the State House aren't usually so cute, but Marlena, a 7-year-old pit bull terrier mix, was the star of advocates' efforts this week to push for protections for animals and pet owners.

Why it matters: Animal advocates want to ban the sale of dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs in pet shops, while letting shops partner with shelters for adoptions.

They're also seeking to stop pets from being used as grounds for eviction during states of emergency, prohibit breed-based discrimination by insurance companies and ensure residents can stay with their pets in state-run housing facilities.

The animal welfare lobby, led by MSPCA-Angell and the Animal Rescue League of Boston, has seen some wins in recent sessions, like last year's new kennel safety regulations and a ban on declawing cats.

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A lobbyist you'll want to snuggle joins push for pet protections

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