SALT LAKE CITY, Nov. 24, 2014 — Mayor Ben McAdams and Salt Lake County Animal Services recently announced the election results of last month’s “Canine Mayor” campaign. Tex, the candidate supported by American Dog Rescue, raised more than ,500 and won the top seat. The new Deputy Canine Mayor of Salt Lake County is CeCe, a three and a half year old mini Golden Doodle. Both will be sworn in during a special ceremony at Tuesday’s Salt Lake County Council meeting.

“I look forward to having the company of Salt Lake County’s first canine mayor or deputy mayor when I’m out at community events,” said Mayor McAdams. “I know Tex and CeCe will be excellent advocates for all of our community’s furry friends.”

A total of 14 canine residents of Salt Lake County participated in the election. While “caninedates” had to be Salt Lake Countyresidents, voters could live anywhere in the world. More than 1,500 people cast their votes and donated  or more to benefit Salt Lake County Animal Service’s Injured Animal Fund.

Tex, as a death-row rescue and longtime Sandy, Utah resident, is the perfect fit for representing his furry constituents and bringing attention to animal welfare and homelessness, said Mr. Arthur Benjamin, ADR Founder.

Mr. Benjamin, a well-known and successful entrepreneur and philanthropist, spends his time between Salt Lake City, Dallas, and Boca Raton. He is a leader in these cities and nationally in numerous non-profits that support animal rights and the welfare of homeless pets, breast cancer and the education of inner-city kids.

The campaign itself was also a huge fundraising success, generating a total of ,080 that will support animals in the most dire conditions, said Mr. Benjamin.

According to Mike Reberg, Director of Salt Lake County Animal Services, “This is one of the most successful fundraisers ever held by our agency. The money raised for the Injured Animal Fund is going to help hundreds of injured and ill animals that find themselves in our care.”

Tex and CeCe will serve a two-year term and attend special events with Mayor McAdams.

American Dog Rescue Foundation (www.americandogrescue.org) is a tax-exempt, non-profit 501(c)3 organization committed to finding a home for every adoptable dog in the United States. American Dog Rescue places healthy dogs in permanent homes that are the right fit for the animal and its family. Donations can be made by visiting www.americandogrescue.org/donate or calling 888-926-0815.

The Salt Lake County Animal Services Injured Animal Fund is specifically restricted for use in helping to provide Emergency Medical Care and Attention to seriously ill or injured animals who could not otherwise become adoptable. This can range from broken bones to amputations and everything in between. It is our hope that this fun will expand so that many other animals with expensive and painful injuries may be helped in the future. Every animal that comes in to their care at the shelter is treated as an individual. Every animal is special.