Bring Animals Relief and Kibble (BARK) Act (S.1939)
The BARK Act of 2025 would protect companies and individuals donating petfood and the nonprofits accepting the donations from liability for "damages" that may come from the donated items. This would enable pet stores to donate old food that is safe for consumption and supplies to animal shelters and rescues.
Don't let good food go to waste with so many animals in need! Please ask your representatives to support the BARK Act of 2025.
Don't let good food go to waste with so many animals in need! Please ask your representatives to support the BARK Act of 2025.
Use this sample letter to tell your Senate representatives to support the BARK Act and add a personal note to increase your impact:
Subject: Please help feed shelter animals and reduce waste. Support the BARK Act
Dear [Representative],
I am writing as a constituent in [your state] to urge you to support the BARK Act (S.1939).
This legislation addresses an important and practical issue: reducing unnecessary barriers that prevent animal shelters and rescue organizations from receiving donated pet food and supplies. In many cases, usable goods are discarded rather than redirected to organizations that serve animals in need.
The BARK Act has already received support from major national animal welfare organizations, including the ASPCA, Best Friends Animal Society, and the Humane World for Animals (formerly the Humane Society of the United States network). These organizations recognize the value of the bill in supporting shelters, reducing waste, and strengthening community-based animal care.
Given this broad support, I respectfully ask the Committee to:
- Schedule a hearing on S.1939
- Advance the bill through committee markup
- Help move it forward to the full Senate for consideration
This is a common-sense, bipartisan measure that would make a meaningful difference for shelters, rescue organizations, and the communities that depend on them. Maryland and the nation have strong networks of animal welfare advocates who would greatly benefit from its passage.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and public service.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Optional: Your address]
[Your city, state, zip]
[Optional: Your email address or phone number]