ALBANY, N.Y. -- Advocates pushing for better protection for pets take part in New York State Animal Advocacy Day in Albany.

Hundreds of animal rights advocates, some accompanied by their four-legged friends, were on hand at the Capitol. Lawmakers, along with celebrities, are lobbying for legislation that will strengthen animal abuse laws like Buster's Law, which made animal cruelty a felony under New York State Law.

Assemblyman Jim Tedisco said, "We can work together to protect our companion pets, who give us unconditional love. The real heroes who are making this happen
are the shelters, the rescues, animal advocates. All of you who are standing up for our animals. "

Acting dog Bocker the Labradoodle, who has appeared in movies like Men in Black 3 and Eat Pray Love was also on hand.

Some other familiar animal activists include Scotia native and runner-up on this season of America’s Next Top Model Laura LaFrate and from the reality TV show The Bachelor, Prince Lorenzo Borghese.