There are few friends more loyal than a faithful dog, and there are few constituency groups more devoted than animal lovers. The Humane Society Tuesday named Rep. John Maher (R-Allegheny) its national “Humane legislator of the year,” something that’s likely to help him on the campaign trail for Auditor General.

“We are grateful for Representative Maher’s resourcefulness on animal protection issues and for his resiliency in the face of opposition,” said Wayne Pacelle, the Humane Society’s national president.

Maher already has a strong social media following from over a dozen animal rights advocates, evidenced by their enthusiastic posting of any Maher-related story written by PoliticsPA.

He’s the chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, where many animal-related bills begin.

In other news, Maher also launched his Auditor General campaign website Tuesday. He faces former PA. Community Bankers Association CEO Frank Pinto of Dauphin County in the primary. Rep. Eugene DePasquale (D-York) is the Democratic candidate.

Here’s the full press release:

Maher Named National “Humane Legislator of the Year”

HARRISBURG – The Humane Society of the United States honored Rep. John Maher (R-Allegheny/Washington) as “Humane Legislator of the Year” for the entire United States.

The Humane Society’s national president, Wayne Pacelle, traveled to the state Capitol to personally present the award to Maher.

According to Pacelle, Maher has distinguished himself among all legislators in the nation with his leadership on fighting animal cruelty, “We are grateful for Representative Maher’s resourcefulness on animal protection issues and for his resiliency in the face of opposition,” said Pacelle.

Maher responded, “We have accomplished a lot of common sense advances, but much important work remains.”  Maher, who is chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, noted that good animal care coincides with good agricultural practices.

This year’s national award by the Humane Society adds to the recognitions that Maher has received as the state’s leading advocate against animal cruelty.  Last year, the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association and the University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine – the state’s top animal health organizations – joined together to honor Maher as “Legislator of the Year” for his success in helping animals, food safety and agricultural research and education.