Hello supporters, Though it's easy to imagine the discomfort of being left outside in freezing temperatures, dogs are also susceptible to the effects of extreme heat. The law for which we're fighting would protect dogs from overall severe weather, be that weather hot or cold. A recent online article explains what happens when asphalt is too hot for your dog, and offers tips for how to avoid painful damage to the dog's paws. But as many of you know, neglectful owners are unlikely to prevent this damage or care that it's being inflicted. If you would like to read the article, you can do so right here: https://www.littlethings.com/pavement-too-hot-dog/ I would like to call your attention to one other article. A few years ago, the Washington Post ran a piece on Virginia's weather patterns, stating in part: "According to NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration), more of the nation’s billion dollar weather disasters afflicted the Commonwealth than all but nine states between 1980 and 2012." Aside from hurricanes, Virginia's location makes it a prime spot for both droughts and heat waves, and winter storms. "Virginia’s location along the East Coast leaves it susceptible to coastal storms, of both of the tropical and cold season variety. Furthermore, its position in the crosshairs between the north and south places it in the volatile battleground between polar and tropical airmasses, a prime locale for storminess." Lastly, it's important to remember that seasons are starting to blend together more and more each year. Seemingly, we go from Winter to Summer without any kind of smooth transition. Those who believe that dogs were "bred for extreme temperatures" are not only deluded, but perpetuating harmful information as a way of covering their negligence. Read the full article here: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/capital-weather-gang/wp/2013/05/31/virginia-the-9th-leading-state-for-costly-weather-events We passed 15,000 signatures this week. Thank you for your continued support!