Why Does Maine Not Have an Official State Dog?

Maine should have a state dog before a state fossil, but we don't.

No joke, the Portland Press Herald did point out that we have an official state fossil (the Pertica quadrifaria, a Devonian plant that lived about 400 million years ago), but we don't have a state dog. Plus, it's an obvious choice of what it should be too.

Maine should have the Seppala Siberian as the official state dog

The history behind the Seppala Siberian sled dog screams Maine! Maine State Rep David Boyer of Poland is trying his hardest to get this to be the official state dog. The Seppala Siberians are descended from the legendary Togo. The most amazing lead dog of a team that delivered a crucial vaccine across the Alaskan wilderness 100 years ago before he retired at the Poland Spring Resort.

Rep Boyer told the Portland Press Herald,

It’s a great story that people should know more about. It highlights the ethos of Mainers and the resilience of Mainers.

I know the government has gotten a little crazy, and making a dog an official state dog, is probably not on a priority list - but it seems like an easy thing to do to honor such an amazing story. Here's how you can help.

READ MORE: Mainer’s Dog Killed By Common Household Product – How to Prevent it

Yes, there is a Disney movie about Togo and his amazing journey.

Only 13 states have official state dogs, but Maine has a rich mushing history and is only second to Alaska where it's a crucial form of transportation. With Togo's ties to Maine and a Disney movie, this should happen. But it is the government, and well, some other politicians have favorite dogs too. 10 years ago they tried to get the Labrador as Maine's official state dog. That didn't happen either.

If you think the legislature has better things to do besides pick a state dog, you're right. But find another issue that doesn't cost a dime and won't upset anyone.