Our advocacy team

One of the ways the Dumb Friends League can fulfill its mission to end pet homelessness and animal suffering is to influence the laws and policies that protect animals and enhance their welfare. Our Advocacy team works with policymakers, animal welfare agencies, law enforcement and the community to drive the policies that make Colorado a leader in protecting our furry family members. We hope to help you stay informed on issues in Colorado and across the country that impact animal sheltering and welfare and continue to make systemic changes that benefit animals and the humans that love them, now and in the future.


Latest News

In a new Keating Research poll of 800 likely November 2024 voters in Colorado, a pair of ballot measures to improve care for pets and increase access to veterinary care are supported by wide margins. Voters consistently line up with strong bipartisan support for both measures, with 72% supporting the ballot measure to allow veterinarians to use telehealth at their discretion and 65% supporting the ballot measure to establish the Veterinary Professional Associate position. Both proposals also face extremely low
opposition, as fewer than 10% say they will vote no on the measures.

Come and GROWL with us!! The GROWL group – which stands for Grassroots Outreach Within (the) League – is a way for our wonderful, passionate animal welfare community to engage in public policy. Participation in GROWL could include contacting your legislators, writing a letter to the editor, posting on social media or attending hearings at the Capitol. It is up to you how much time you want to invest and every little bit counts!

If you are interested in learning more about advocacy or the GROWL group, please contact Ali Mickelson. We look forward to GROWLing with you!


“We believe that every pet owner should have access to veterinary care for their animals,” said Dr. Apryl Steele, President and CEO of the Dumb Friends League. “Colorado residents are struggling to access the care they need for their pets and we stand firm in our dedication to provide more resources for pet owners across the state. The poll results have shown overwhelming support for these measures and we ask that voters continue this momentum so we see Initiative 145 on the ballot in November 2024.”