For Immediate Release:
January 3, 2007

Contact:
Bruce Friedrich 757-622-7382

On September 27, 2006, Gov. Schwarzenegger signed into law SB 1578, a landmark piece of legislation that limits the tethering of dogs to no more than three hours at a time. Because they are highly social animals, dogs suffer when they are forced to live at the end of a chain in back yards. Chained dogs can also be dangerous to humans who come too close. Said the governor, "This bill helps protect dogs from cruelty and enhances public safety by preventing aggressive animal behavior that can result from inhumane tethering."

In 2004, the governor signed a bill banning the cruel practice of force-feeding ducks and geese in order to produce the "delicacy" foie gras from the animals’ enlarged livers. Birds raised for foie gras can often barely walk or even breathe, and many die from ruptures caused by the pipes that are inserted down their throats. Gov. Schwarzenegger also signed two more animal-friendly bills, one making it a crime to leave companion animals unattended in hot cars and the other increasing the penalties for forcing dogs, roosters, and other animals to fight.

"When it comes to stamping out cruelty to animals in California, Gov. Schwarzenegger really has become the ‘Terminator,’" says PETA President Ingrid E. Newkirk. "We’re thrilled to recognize Gov. Schwarzenegger, whose compassionate leadership serves as an example for all states to follow."

This year, there were more than 20 "Proggy" winners, ranging from producers and marketers of vegan foods and cruelty-free personal-care and household products to companies and individuals helping to promote respect and empathy for animals through scientific advances, education, and politics.

For more information and to see the entire list of winners, please visit PETA.org.