I am honored to have recently been named Legislator of the Year for 2005 by the Humane Society of the United States, which cited my efforts to advance animal protection legislation at the national level.

As a veterinarian by profession, my background provides me with a deep understanding of the issues that impact animals and animal lovers everywhere. As a Senator, I have the opportunity to take that understanding and work on legislation that will protect animals from some inhumane practices.

I have worked in the United States Senate to end the gruesome practice of animal fighting through the Animal Fighting Prohibition Enforcement Act, which makes it a felony to transport animals across state lines for the purpose of fighting and bans cockfighting implements. I authored the American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act in an effort to stop the practice of slaughtering horses for human consumption, and I have also cosponsored a bill to crack down on puppy mills nationwide.

This past year, I had the opportunity to travel to Louisiana to assist in the coordination of the effort to rescue pets and reunite them with their owners in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. That was an experience that will remain with me always.

I'm very proud to be named Legislator of the Year and will continue my efforts to advance animal protection measures in 2006.