Are you: 

• 10 to 17-years-old;
•  a self-guided problem solver; and
• passionate about helping animals across Texas?

Then this is the program for you!

How do I know if the THLN Junior Advocate Program is for me?

The program is right for you if you are:

• enthusiastic and passionate about educating and advocating for the compassionate treatment of animals in Texas;
• interested in serving the community, and advocacy training;
• and are willing to present about THLN and its mission in front of peers and groups.

When you join the Junior Advocate Program, you will:

• Meet and Speak with Local and State Representatives
• Help Pass Humane Laws for Animals
• Learn How Bills Become Law
  
  

Join Now

How did the THLN Junior Advocate Program Begin?

Landon James Pemberton, 8, testified before the Texas Senate Committee on Criminal Justice in April 2015 for a bill requiring Texas peace officers to undergo canine encounter training. Landon’s dog, Vinny, was shot by an officer outside their home, and according to his mother, Valerie Bowling, her son was playing just several feet away from where the dog was shot. Vinny miraculously recovered despite the bullet going through the dog’s neck, side, and stomach. Landon said that didn’t stop him from wanting to prevent this from happening to other dogs.

He surprised everyone when they asked if anyone had anything to say about the bill. Landon stood up and asked to speak. It is heartwarming and unforgettable that such a young child would have the courage to do this, and his testimony was so emotional for all of us that have worked so hard to see this pass.

(Landon Pemberton and Vinny with a Special Commendation and Medal from Senator John Whitmire and Landon testifying before the Texas Senate Committee on Criminal Justice)

The bill made its way through the process and was signed by Gov. Greg Abbott. Landon’s bravery sparked the idea that a child’s voice is just as important as an adult’s and that we need their help passing important humane legislation.

In 1933, the National PTA Congress issued a statement saying, “Children trained to extend justice, kindness, and mercy to animals become more just, kind, and considerate in their relations with each other. Character training along these lines will result in men and women of braver sympathies, more humane, more law-abiding in every respect, more valuable citizens.”

Since then, more of our Junior Advocates have demonstrated similar bravery. Ziggy Aigen’s dog Fern was chained her whole life until the Houston Humane Society rescued her. Ziggy brought Fern’s chain to the hearing and testified in the Texas House on State Affairs in October 2021 on SB 5 after the Governor vetoed the original bill. Ziggy memorized his speech and said he did it to be Fern’s voice.

THLN Junior Advocates Dominick and Ariana Patermo enjoy time with a therapy dog before meeting Representative Morgan Meyer (Texas House District 108) on Humane Lobby Day.

Rep. Morgan Meyer (Texas House District 112), and THLN Junior Advocates Finley Peterson, Olivia Sanders, Emerson Hickox, and Genna Flourney.

THLN Junior Advocates Zarley Aigen, Genna Flourney, Finley Peterson, and Emerson Hickox at the SPCA Strutt Your Mutt Event.

THLN Junior Advocates Genna Flourney, Emerson Hickox, and Finley Peterson reading books to dogs at Dallas Animal Services.

Rep. James Talarico (Texas House District 52) and THLN Junior Advocate Bella Grace Burgan.

Rep. Morgan Meyer (Texas House District 112), and THLN Junior Advocates Emerson Hickox, Zarley Aigen (standing) and Ziggy Aigen (sitting) on the house floor.

Former Rep. Jason Villalba and THLN Junior Advocate Addie Higgins and her mother Amy Higgins.