Gov. Ayotte Works To Streamline Pet Fostering, Adoption Laws in New Hampshire

New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte recently visited the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire (ARLNH) in Bedford to discuss ways to simplify laws around fostering and rescuing pets. 

During her visit, Ayotte emphasized efforts to keep New Hampshire a state supportive of people and pets by removing barriers to fostering and making fostering and adoption safer and easier. Ayotte also supports these efforts by featuring an adoptable dog from a local New Hampshire rescue on her Facebook page each week.

“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,” Ayotte said.  

“Over the past decade, animal welfare has advanced significantly, with best practices firmly rooted in scientific research and measurable outcomes,” said Marianne Jones, CEO of the Animal Rescue League of New Hampshire, in a statement shared with The Rochester Post. “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 Aligning state law with current data, updating outdated protocols, and reinforcing coordinated partnerships between shelters, rescues, and regulatory agencies will create a more effective and accountable oversight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.”

The ARLNH is a nonprofit that helps more than 2,200 cats, dogs, and other small animals each year. Its roots date to 1902, and it has maintained its Bedford shelter since 1998. ARLNH also operates community outreach programs, including a pet food pantry and low-cost spay and neuter clinics, to support pet owners facing financial hardship. 

For more information about adopting a pet, visit the organization's website.