Minnesota lawmakers take a break with puppies

Published on 2026-03-06 by Karina Kafka

The Minnesota Animal Humane Society held its 9th annual Puppy Day event at the Minnesota State Capitol on Thursday, March 5. Lawmakers and staff got to play with 16 puppies from eight to 10 weeks old and hear about the society’s 2026 legislative priorities, including the Dog and Cat Transparency Bill and the Office of Animal Protection Bill.

The Minnesota Animal Humane Society held its 9th annual Puppy Day event at the Minnesota State Capitol, where advocates met with lawmakers about the society’s 2026 legislative priorities. Thursday, March 5, 2026. Karina Kafka/Report for Minnesota

Lawmakers and staff interacted with 16 puppies during Puppy Day at the Minnesota State Capitol. The annual event hosted by the Animal Humane Society focuses on legislative priorities related to animal protection. Thursday, March 5, 2026. Karina Kafka/Report for Minnesota

Sen. Mary Kunesh, DFL-New Brighton, holds a puppy during Animal Humane Society’s Puppy Day at the Minnesota State Capitol. Thursday, March 5, 2026. Karina Kafka/Report for Minnesota

Sen. John Marty, DFL-Roseville, holds a puppy during Animal Humane Society’s Puppy Day at the Minnesota State Capitol. Thursday, March 5, 2026. Karina Kafka/Report for Minnesota