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Bill in Lansing would make "shelter pets" Michigan's official state pet

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Attorney General Dana Nessel has recently condemned the use of puppy mills. Now, Representative Padma Kuppa has introduced a bill that would declare "shelter pets" as the official state pet.

Getting a new pet is an exciting time for any family. Unfortunately, many scammers exploit that happiness through the use of puppy mills. Attorney General Dana Nessel recently met with the Humane Society of the United States to discuss the issue of puppy mills, and how to protect consumers from being scammed.

Representative Padma Kuppa (D. Troy) has introduced a bill to  declare “shelter pets” as the state pet. She said we need to treat all living creatures with more compassion.

“If you can treat animals in such a commoditized way where you have puppy mills, when you have such coarseness, I think it’s a bad idea, and we need to make people more human.”

Kuppa said having state mascots draws attention to important issues.

“I think it’s important because it recognizes the importance of that particular “thing” to the state, and I think it’s part of a broader challenge in our society to treat all creatures with compassion and care.”

Kuppa condemned the use of puppy mills, and said adoption is a more ethical practice. She urged those looking to add a furry family member to head to their local shelter.