PETA Gives WeHo Mayor Jeff Prang Special Honor

West Hollywood, California (Thursday, December 4, 2008) - West Hollywood City Council Slams the Door on Rent-a-Dog Companies by passing a new law that bars businesses from "renting out" dogs in West Hollywood.

For that initiative, Mayor Jeff Prang will receive PETA's Compassionate Mayor Award.

Knowing that companies like FlexPetz are eager to expand into the area, the West Hollywood City Council passed a preemptive law barring "pet rentals" from the city. "

It devalues the life of these animals and treats them like a rent-a-car," said Mayor Prang.

"Dogs and pets, our companion animals, require stable homes, they require companionship; they're not like a purse you throw in and out of a car to look trendy as you're going from town to town."

PETA agrees, pointing out that being bounced around from home to home is confusing to dogs, who thrive on routine and feel most secure and happy when they are able to establish their own territory and bond with a "pack."

Many dogs refuse to eat while their guardians are away, and some have even been known to jump through windows in a desperate attempt to reunite with their families.

"Because of the foresight of Mayor Prang and the City Council, pet rental companies will not be able to make a buck at the expense of dogs' emotional health," says PETA Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch.

"We hope that neighboring cities will follow West Hollywood's compassionate example and consign FlexPetz to the doghouse."

Mayor Prang will receive a framed certificate and thank-you card signed by PETA staff.

For more information, please visit PETA's Web site HelpingAnimals.com.