Breakstone isn’t the only one passionate about this issue, Julie Lewin, the author of “Get Political For Animals and Win the Laws They Need,” was also there Saturday to help educate animal rights groups and dog rescue organizations about how to get more political for their cause.

“No other issue group attempts to impact laws through charities,” Lewin said. “In order to pursue a political agenda you have to be able to endorse candidates.”

For example, the sportsmen and hunters may represent 1.5 percent of the population in the state, but they’re successful at getting laws passed because they lobby through a political organization, Lewin said.

While legislators may know the sportsmen represent a tiny number of constituents, they’re still scared of them, she said. She said many legislators want to vote in favor of legislation animal rights organizations support, but “we aren’t organized.” She said if animal rights groups were organized and able to politically endorse candidates then they would be able to protect lawmakers when it comes time for re-election.

Saturday’s event also included a blessing of each of the pets by Rev. Michael Ader of West Hartford and a candlelight vigil for homeless pets.