Representative Receives Award for His Continued Support of Animal Welfare Issues

Columbiana, Al.- Alabama district 49 representative Cam Ward was presented with a plaque honoring his legislative efforts in support of the “Dangerous Dog” bill (HB27). The presentation was made at a Shelby County Commission meeting, the plaque was presented by Shelby County Animal Control Officer Donald Kendrick, Alabama Humane Federation president Mindy Gilbert and Alabama Animal Control Association President Danny Melson. Also present was Renee Jones, Alabama Humane Federation Board of Directors member.

The Alabama Humane Federation and Alabama Animal Control Association are sister agencies representing the animal welfare, animal control agencies and similarly committed individuals across the state. Historically the Alabama Humane Federation works every year to promote legislation pertaining to animal welfare. That work is supported by the Alabama Animal Control Association.

Representative Cam Ward has been a strong proponent of the “Spay and Neuter of Shelter Animals” bill (HB252) and the “Anti Animal Fighting bill regarding Hog and Dog Rodeos”(HB86) and has worked very hard as sponsor of the “Dangerous Dog” bill (HB27). The Federation and Animal Control Association believe strongly this bill will serve to protect the citizenry and put the responsibility of actions by a dangerous dog where it belongs--on the owner. The dedication of Representative Ward in this endeavor has been powerful and there is no doubt that when this bill is passed into law that it will be largely due to Cam Ward's efforts. As one County Commissioner commentated at the presentation, "I've always believed that dog is man's best friend, I have no doubt that Representative Cam Ward is dog's best man".