Governor Ayotte Highlights Need to Help More Pets Find Safe, Loving Homes

CONCORD, N.H. - On Tuesday, Governor Kelly Ayotte visited the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire in Bedford to discuss ways to improve laws around fostering and rescuing pets in New Hampshire.

"Our shelters and rescues help thousands of pets find safe, loving homes each year," said Governor Ayotte. "I was glad to meet with the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire to talk about how we can make it even easier to help pets in need, including removing barriers to fostering pets while they wait for their forever home. Working together, we can keep the Granite State the freest in the nation for both people and pets."

Governor Ayotte has made it a priority to help more pets find safe, loving homes, and the Governor's Office is working alongside legislators and animal welfare stakeholders to look at ways to make fostering and adoption safer and easier. Each week, Governor Ayotte also features an adoptable dog from a local New Hampshire rescue on her Facebook page.

"Over the past decade, animal welfare has advanced significantly, with best practices firmly rooted in scientific research and measurable outcomes," said Marianne Jones, CEO; Naomi Stevens, COO; and Dr. Stephanie Magnarelli, DVM, Chief Medical Officer of the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire. "New Hampshire's statutes and administrative rules should reflect that progress. Aligning state law with current data, updating outdated protocols, and reinforcing coordinated partnerships between shelters, rescues, and regulatory agencies will create a more effective and accountable oversight framework. This approach protects animal well-being, supports responsible organizations, and ensures every animal has a safe and efficient path to their next home."

About the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire:

The Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that helps more than 2,200 cats, dogs, and small animals each year. The ARLNH was founded in 1902, opened its first shelter in Goffstown in 1942, and has been in Bedford since 1998. ARLNH also offers community outreach programs to help pet owners experiencing financial hardship, including a Pet Food Pantry and Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinics.

Learn more about adopting a pet from the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire.