Washington, D.C., got a whole lot cuter on February 12!

Lawmakers and their staff were treated to some quality time with adorable puppies and kittens last Friday during the fourth annual Paws for Love celebration, a Valentine’s Day Capitol Hill event hosted by the ASPCA and the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus (CAPC).

The event brought adoptable pets directly to Capitol Hill from 10 local animal rescue groups to highlight the importance of animal shelters and pet adoption. Nearly 20 animals found homes during the day’s event!

Longtime animal welfare advocates and more than 20 prominent members of Congress were in attendance to show their support, including former Kansas Senator Bob Dole and former North Carolina Senator and U.S. cabinet member Elizabeth Dole. The co-chairs of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, Representatives Earl Blumenauer and Michael G. Fitzpatrick, were also on site advocating for dog and cat adoption.

Formed in 2009, the CAPC raises awareness of animal welfare issues in Congress and helps advance common-sense animal-protection legislation. In recent years, the 128-member bipartisan caucus helped pass critical new laws, including ones to crack down on spectators at animal fights and protect children from these heinous events.

We want to thank the members of Congress and their staff who were able to join us for this exciting event! Check out the photos below to see U.S. lawmakers and their new friends at Paws for Love.