STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — For once, a candidate doesn’t mind that his campaign has gone to the dogs. GOP South Shore Assembly candidate Joseph Borelli has been endorsed by the American Kennel Club (AKC). “I am a dog lover, plain and simple,” said Borelli. “I am grateful to the AKC for their support and eager to work with them on pet-friendly legislation in the future.”
Through his job as chief of staff to City Councilman Vincent Ignizio (R-South Shore), Borelli has been involved in a number of initiatives involving pets.
Borelli worked with the AKC and the city Health Department on the implementation of a law which bans the tethering of dogs to stationary objects with a choke or pinch collar.
“I am glad I was able to help shape how this law would be implemented,” Borelli said. “No one wants to see a dog chained up all day unattended in a choke collar, it’s just irresponsible.”
He has also been involved in securing funds for the construction of the dog run at Bloomingdale Park, and the upcoming renovation of the one at Wolfe’s Pond Park.
Borelli is the owner of two dogs, a 2-year-old English Bulldog and a 12-year-old mixed breed from an animal shelter.
Borelli last week received a $500 campaign donation from the AKC PAC.
“When called upon, your help and advice to the AKC was invaluable,” Ann Lettis, AKC delegate and director of the AKC’s New York State Federation said at a recent Borelli fundraiser. “Based on our discussions over the years, you have never failed to understand the concerns and interests of responsible dog owners.”