New PETA Billboard Says: Dogs, Cats—If Not Husbands, Wives—Are for Life

As City Contemplates 2-Year Marriage Licenses, PETA Reminds Everyone That Dogs and Cats Must Be Loved Forever

For Immediate Release:
October 6, 2011

Contact:
Kristin Richards 202-483-7382 

Mexico City -- As lawmakers consider a reform to Mexico City's civil code that would allow couples to decide on the length of their marriage—from two years to a lifetime—PETA plans to enter the fray with a proposal for a new billboard that shows a dog and guardian and reads, "I ♥ a man who isn't afraid of commitment. Some relationships are for life." The group hopes to remind anyone thinking of adding a dog or cat to the family that it means making a lifetime commitment to that animal that can last as long as 20 years.

"When you say 'I do' to adopting a dog or cat, you're saying 'I do' to caring for him or her for the rest of that animal's life, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health," says PETA Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. "Dogs and cats would never abandon us, and it's our duty to return that unconditional love and support."

The decision to take a dog or cat home should be weighed carefully by the whole family and should never be made on a whim. Animals require veterinary care, training, nutritious food, attention, and love, and they shouldn't be discarded when the new baby arrives or when a new apartment doesn't allow animals. Too often, animals purchased by unprepared families end up banished to lonely lives on chains or in cages. Others are dumped on the streets to starve, get hit by cars, or be abused by cruel people.

When families are fully prepared to welcome an animal into their lives, the best thing that they can do is adopt a homeless dog or cat whose life depends on being given a second chance.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.