Animal Law Society Update

The Animal Law Society (WVU COL’s official chapter of the Student Animal Legal Defense Fund) is a student organization dedicated to promoting knowledge of animal law and welfare and assisting the local community with its animal-related issues. Our regular activities include monthly meetings, monthly volunteer opportunities, and social gatherings. Some of our past activities have included:

• Annual National Animal Law Competitions
• Hosted by the Harvard Law School SALDF
• Competitions: Appellate Moot Court, Legislative Drafting and Lobbying, Closing Argument
• February 2011: Three WVU COL students attended and participated in the Moot Court and Legislative Competitions
• Animal Law Week
• Local officials and animal organizations spoke about relevant animal law matters
• Pet Photo Contest
• Proceeds were donated to Mountaineer Spay-Neuter Assistance Program
• Morgantown City Ordinance Drafted & Passed
• “The City of Morgantown recognizes that homeless and unwanted dogs, puppies, cats and kittens are euthanized every year due to pet overpopulation. The City asserts that euthanasia is an archaic, expensive, and ineffective approach to animal control. For this reason, the City promotes sterilization as the preferred solution to pet overpopulation and encourages all dog and cat owners to have their pets spayed and neutered.” (Article 505.14 Spaying and Neutering)
• West Law 2009 Animal Law Book Compilation
• Travel-sized booklet of WV animal laws for law enforcers to reference on the job

This semester, we plan to hold another pet photo contest, host our second Animal Law Week, collaborate with Adopt-a-Shelter WV, and continue volunteer opportunities.