BOSTON – Senator John Kerry today received a score of 100% on the Humane Society’s Humane Scorecard on animal protection issues during the 110th Congress. His score was based on his opposition to horse slaughter, animal fighting, downed animal slaughter and his work to prohibit the use in research of dogs and cats obtained from unknown sources – including stolen family pets.

"The Humane Society should be applauded for its work championing the cause of protecting animals, and I'm proud to receive a 100% rating from the group," said Senator Kerry. "I'll continue to be an advocate for animal rights and work with my colleagues in Washington to ensure the Humane Society has a strong voice in Congress that recognizes and furthers its work on behalf of all animals."

Kerry was a co-sponsor of the Horse Slaughter Amendment, legislation that prohibits the slaughter of horses for human consumption. He also co-sponsored the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act which created felony-level penalties for violations of the federal law on dog fighting and cockfighting. In addition, Kerry was a co-sponsor of the Downed Animal Protection Act which prohibits USDA certification of meat from sick or injured livestock.

Every year the Humane Society Legislative Fund creates a federal Humane Scorecard to give a snapshot of the animal protection issues considered by the U.S. Congress. The scorecard tracks key votes as well as co-sponsorship of pro-animal bills. This is the fifth consecutive year that Senator Kerry has received a score of 100%.

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