The resolution designates October 3 of each year as Companion Animal Cruelty Awareness Day in New Jersey, aiming to raise public awareness about the issue of animal cruelty and promote education on its prevention. It highlights the alarming statistics from the Federal Bureau of Investigation's National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS), which reported 11,566 incidents of animal cruelty in 2020. The resolution emphasizes that animal cruelty is not only a matter of animal welfare but also a public safety concern, as studies have shown a correlation between animal abuse and interpersonal violence.
To commemorate this day, the resolution requests that the Governor issue an annual proclamation recognizing Companion Animal Cruelty Awareness Day and encourages relevant organizations, citizens, and state agencies to engage in activities that promote awareness and education about companion animal cruelty. By establishing this day, New Jersey reaffirms its commitment to the humane treatment of animals and the prevention of cruelty, while also addressing the need for better reporting and understanding of animal cruelty incidents within the state.