Everyone needs a friend in Washington
WHAT:  The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is sponsoring an animal adoption event on Capitol Hill. Several local animal shelters, rescue groups, and animal welfare organizations, including the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA), will be present with adoptable dogs and cats. Staffers are encouraged to snuggle and de-stress with animals while learning about the benefits of adoption. The event is hosted by the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, co-chaired by Rep. Jim Moran (8th District, VA) and Rep. Elton Gallegly (24th District, CA.)

WHO:  The event is open to the public. Members of the media are welcome and pre-event registration is not required.

WHEN:  Tuesday, July 24, 2012, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

WHERE:  The Cannon House Office Building
Cannon Caucus Room
Washington, DC 20515

VISUALS:  Up to 50 adoptable dogs cats, including puppies and kittens, will visit Capitol Hill to snuggle and cuddle with members of Congress and their staff. Half a dozen local animal welfare groups will come together to raise awareness about the benefits of animal adoption in front of the country’s most influential leaders. Congressman Moran from the 8th Congressional District of Virginia will give remarks as a representative of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus.

Contact: Patrick Cole
Director of Communications and Outreach
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
(o) 703.746.5655
(c) 703.585.7065
pcole@AlexandriaAnimals.org

About the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
The Animal Welfare League of Alexandria is an independent, local, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Operating the Vola Lawson Animal Shelter, an open-admission facility and Alexandria’s only animal shelter, the League provides care for more than 3,500 animals every year, including strays, lost pets, local wildlife, rescue animals, and animals surrendered by their owners. The AWLA is committed to ending animal homelessness, promoting animal welfare, and serving as an educational resource for the community.
www.AlexandriaAnimals.org