Dear John,

National Dogfighting Awareness Day is coming up on April 8, and in honor of this day, I'm asking you to take a stand with me: speak out against dogfighting by becoming a Citizen Cosponsor of the HEART Act, a federal bill created to help the innocent dogs who are its victims.

Even though it’s illegal nationwide, dogfighting still occurs. As I’ve gotten involved in the ASPCA’s work, I’ve become particularly interested in helping the dogs who are saved from this life. They suffer immensely, but they did nothing wrong—and they deserve a second chance. The HEART Act will help make sure these dogs don’t continue to suffer once they’ve been rescued, and it needs our full support.

The HEART Act is so important because it will cut through the red tape that’s keeping dogfighting victims from starting on the path to normal lives. Right now, these dogs may spend months or even years in shelters before they're permitted to be rehomed; considered property, they must be held until the court acts. If we can get this bill passed, it will accelerate the legal process that allows these dogs to be rehabilitated—and eventually, adopted.

We owe them the chance for a fresh start as quickly and humanely as possible—which means reducing the barriers currently standing in their way.

Please join me and sign on as a Citizen Cosponsor. This critical bill won’t advance unless Congress knows that the American people care.

Help us reach our goal of 50,000 Citizen Cosponsors of the HEART Act. Add your name today.

The ASPCA and I—along with every dog who has ever fallen victim to the barbaric practice of dogfighting—thank you with all our hearts for using your voice. Here's to creating a more compassionate world together. Please add your name today.