A group of US House members have formed a “Dog Lovers Caucus” aimed at promoting harmony among those who appreciate dogs. This move comes after South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem came under scrutiny for acknowledging in her memoir that she shot her 14-month-old puppy, Cricket, whom she described as having an “aggressive personality.”
Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), one of the founding members, emphasized the love and joy that dogs bring to people’s lives, calling them the “only thing on earth that loves you more than they love themselves.” The caucus aims to foster bipartisanship in Congress through the shared love for dogs and to promote legislation that protects dogs’ rights and well-being.
Reps. Nancy Mace (R-SC) and Susan Wild (D-Pa.) have joined Moskowitz in the caucus, highlighting the bipartisan nature of the group. Mace emphasized the importance of dogs as beloved companions, stating that the caucus will champion legislation to ensure dogs receive the care, respect, and recognition they deserve.
The formation of the Dog Lovers Caucus has garnered positive responses, with users on X expressing support and unity among dog lovers. The caucus plans to conduct various events to raise awareness and promote bipartisan cooperation on issues related to dogs.
Governor Noem defended herself against criticism, calling reports on the dog shooting story “fake news” and urging people to read her book for the truth. She described Cricket as “extremely dangerous” and justified her actions by stating that the dog had killed a neighbor’s chickens and disrupted a pheasant hunt.
Despite her defense, reports suggest that Noem’s admission of shooting a dog has diminished her chances of being chosen as former President Donald Trump’s vice president. One source claimed she has “no shot” at the position.
