LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan Democrats have spent plenty of time talking about health care, education, abortion, climate change, economy, saving democracy and fighting against Trump. But when it comes to protecting the state’s cats and dogs, the campaign trail has been relatively quiet.

One notable exception is Democratic gubernatorial candidate Chris Swanson. Last week, Genesee County sheriff unveiled a four-point “Pet Protection Plan,” making animal welfare a centerpiece of his campaign.

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Meanwhile, there is no indication that fellow Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson has made stronger animal cruelty laws, tougher penalties for abusers, or broader pet protection a part of her campaign at all. A review of Benson’s published campaign platform and recent public policy priorities found no comparable animal welfare agenda or proposals specifically aimed at protecting Michigan’s companion animals. And when we asked what she would do to protect Michigan pets, her campaign did not return our request for comment.

Swanson’s plan puts teeth into animal protection.

Swanson’s proposal includes several reforms aimed at strengthening Michigan’s animal protection laws.

Among them:

  • Tougher penalties for owners who leave companion animals outside in dangerous heat or cold or otherwise neglect them.
  • Creation of a public Protect MI Pet Registry for convicted animal abusers, along with a prohibition on owning companion animals after conviction.
  • Changing Michigan law so pets are recognized as “living property” rather than being treated legally the same as furniture or other inanimate objects, allowing abused animals to be placed into new homes more quickly.
  • State financial assistance for qualified rescues, shelters, foster homes, humane societies, and wildlife rehabilitation organizations.

Whether voters agree with every proposal or not, Swanson has at least put a detailed animal welfare agenda on the table – a topic that has largely been absent from Michigan gubernatorial races over the years. That omission is notable given how many Michiganders have a personal stake in the issue.

Image Credit: Chris Swanson

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, Michigan is home to an estimated 2.6 million dogs and 1.8 million cats. Many households also own horses, rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, reptiles and other companion animals. With so many Michiganders sharing their lives with pets, animal protection is an issue that touches millions of voters.

Who will speak for Michigan’s animals?

Campaigns routinely promise to protect children, seniors, veterans and working families. Pets rarely make the stump speech. Swanson has decided they should.