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Ensign to assess pet rescues in Louisiana

Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2005 | 10 a.m.

SUN WASHINGTON BUREAU

WASHINGTON -- Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev., left this morning to spend most of the day in Louisiana to assess the effort to rescue pets in the hurricane-devastated Gulf Coast region.

Ensign planned to meet with Vice Adm. Thad Allen of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, who is leading the agency's relief effort. The senator also planned to meet with Michael Groves, dean of Louisiana State University's School of Veterinary Medicine, and LSU Chancellor Sean O'Keefe.

"As a veterinarian, I want to make sure the pet rescue efforts are being well coordinated for the sake of the people in that region as well as the animals," Ensign said.

Ensign has urged White House officials to designate a government point-person to lead pet rescue efforts, but has not received a response. Pet rescues were left mostly to volunteer and private organizations such as the Humane Society.

Ensign believes that roaming pets pose a danger -- as well as a health hazard by carrying disease -- to relief efforts and returning residents.

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