washingtonpost.com:
Thank you for joining us this afternoon. Today we’re thrilled to welcome our guest, ASPCA special investigator and star of Animal Planet’s Animal Precinct, Annemarie Lucas. Let’s get started!
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Hollywood, Fla.:
I am an animal lover and come to a complete hault if I see an animal crossing the street. Naturally I do not do this if there is a great deal of traffic, but I do slow down. My question is this:
Is it true that animal cruelty laws were written before child abuse laws and that the basis of child abuse legislation is from animal cruelty legislation?
Annemarie Lucas: Hi everyone, thanks for joining me. Let's go for it!
Most child abuse laws preceded the passage of animal abuse laws. However, it was the creative use of the Writ of Habeas corpus by Eldridge Gerry, attorney for the ASPCA, which was invoked in the child abuse case of Mary Ellen. Gerry used this legal tool to enforce the animal cruelty statute against those who abused animals, which were seen as “prisoners” of their owners. Gerry argued that the Writ, which is an order to bring before the court any prisoner of confinement, applied to Mary Ellen, a seven-year-old child who had been confined to her home for years and severely abused by her guardian. Both Gerry and Henry Bergh, the founder of the ASPCA, saw little difference between the plight of abused animals and children. It was the story of Mary Ellen that inspired Henry Bergh in 1874 to incorporate the society for the prevention of cruelty to children
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Harpers Ferry, W. Va.:
I constantly see dogs caged in backyards, sometimes in very small, bad conditions. Who and how do I report such things in my area? If I do, are the people just warned? Do the animals get taken away and then put in shelters where they are probably eventually euthanized? Basically, I want to know what is the best thing to do.
Thank you for your time.
Corey
Annemarie Lucas: Animal cruelty is both the intentional act to harm an animal, and the failure to act when there is a duty to act and the person has custody or possession of the animal. The failure to act often involves neglecting to provide the animal with wholesome food, water, appropriate shelter, or necessary veterinary care. In the case you describe if the animal is not provided with these necessities of life the owner may very well be in violation of West Virginia’s cruelty law. The law makes it a misdemeanor to withhold food, water, shelter or medical treatment necessary to sustain normal health and fitness. It is punishable by a maximum of six months imprisonment and/or a fine of $100 - $1000.
Oftentimes in neglect cases, law enforcement will attempt to work with the owner and educate him/her regarding the needs of the animal in order to remedy the situation. However, if the owner fails to take the necessary steps, or if it is a severe case of neglect, or a recurring problem with that owner, law enforcement will issue a summons to the person for violating the cruelty law. Many cases of neglect become so dire that they often become the equivalent of intentional abuse. A duly held hearing must be held to determine whether the person violated the cruelty law. Since animal cruelty statutes are criminal laws, the prosecutor usually has the discretion whether to prosecute the case. This largely depends on the strength of the facts of the case. In West Virginia, if the person is found guilty, he or she must forfeit the animal. This is an important development in the law today. It recognizes that animals, like children in the Mary Ellen case, are no longer viewed entirely as property. Rather, in this instance, the law looks to what is in the best interest of the animal. Typically, the animal that is the subject of abuse will be given to the local shelter or humane society and adopted into a new home.
To report animal cruelty in West Virginia or any other state, go to the ASPCA’s website, www.aspca.org, Fight Animal Cruelty, where you can find local law enforcement in your jurisdiction, as well as other helpful information on what people can do to stop cruelty. In West Virginia, and all states the police are required to enforce the animal cruelty law. All fifty states have anti-cruelty laws. How they punish offenders for particular crimes involving certain animals, and the exceptions they contain differ by state. It is extremely important for the public to assist law enforcement in cracking down on animal cruelty. We cannot do this job alone so if you think an animal is being abused or neglected, it is best to report it.
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Baton Rouge, La.:
Annemarie,
I am your biggest fan and I never ever miss your show. You are one of my idols. You take your job very seriously and for one of the best causes because people are so cruel to animals. My question for you is, how do you manage keeping your emotions in check when you are dealing with some of the worse cases of animal cruelty, like with Sheila, the German Sheperd you rescued from a horrible situation?
Thank you and keep up the wonderful work!
Lisa Foster
Annemarie Lucas: Thanks so much - how sweet! I learned very quickly in the beginning of my career that in order to help animals I needed to put my emotions aside and think about the needs of the animals that were being abused. I would not be very effective in saving an animal from being abused if I let my emotions get in the way. My heart breaks every day for the animals who suffer and I can't be there to rescue them, but I do what I can to bring their abusers to justice. If everyone did something every day to make an animal's life better this would be a much better world.
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Kirksville, Mo.:
Hi,
I am 6 years old and I watch you rescue all those animals. We have 7 rescued dogs. How can I get my friends to understand animals need help? What can we do? Alex, 6 years old.
Annemarie Lucas: Why not introduce your animals to your friends and show them how much you love and respect them, and also show them how much care they actually require. You know as well as I do that your animals can be your best friends. Tell your friends to watch Animal Precinct on Animal Planet and see how much some animals suffer when they don't have someone to care for them like you do. Thank you for caring so much about animals!
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Zanesville, Ohio:
My daughter is interested in becoming an ASPCA officer. What does she need to do? She is 19. I've tried to convince her to become a lawyer, but she wants to actively help animals in need. She has worked for a no-kill shelter and raised money for immunizations, spay and neutering. What advice would you give her?
Annemarie Lucas: Sounds like your daughter has gotten off to a great start. We definitely need lawyers to help prosecute animal cruelty cases either for the district attorney's office or in private practice. It's a great way to fight for animals' rights because we need people who care about animals to defend them in the court of law. Gain as much experience working in animal shelters - that's where I gained most of my experience with animals. Humane societies also need help raising funds to support their shelters and in educating the public. If she wants to pursue a law enforcement career she should absolutely do so because the police are on the front lines in those communities that don't have dedicated humane law enforcement officers. Best of luck.
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Portland, Maine:
How can we get the legislature in our state to increase the penalties presently on the books upon conviction of animal abuse or cruelty? It appears too many people are getting away with a slap on the wrist and allowed to go on their merry way! It would be wonderful that as part of a sentence, the person would have to spend an appropriate amount of time working in a shelter or dog pound.
Annemarie Lucas: More and more states today are enacting laws that treat intentional abuse as a felony offense. The ASPCA has drafted model legislation that would do this that we would be happy to make available. It is important that concerned citizens speak with their elected officials and educate them as to the need to treat animal abuse as a serious offense. There have been numerous studies documenting the clear link between animal abuse and domestic violence. It's important that we stop this cycle of violence and we can do this by elevating the punishment for animal abuse.
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Hefei, China:
My question is, does being kind to animals need cooperation from all sides?
Annemarie Lucas: Absolutely! Having compassion for animals is a must from everyone in the world, in my eyes. Animals need protection because we are responsible for them. We control every aspect of an animal's life. We decide when or if they eat, where they sleep, whether or not they receive needed medical attention. So if you think about it, it's a very big responsibility to have an animal in your home.
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Bensalem, Pa.:
Hello Annemarie, I was just wondering how you became interested in a career with animals?
Annemarie Lucas: I've always loved animals and wanted to help them in some way. While working at an animal shelter, I witnessed numerous cases of animal abuse. I knew I needed to do more. When I learned of the position at the ASPCA, I knew I had found my calling. I have the greatest job in the world. I not only get to save animals in need, but I also get to arrest their abusers.
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Indianapolis, Ind.:
With the all the Mom and Pop pet stores in this country and the increasing number of pet superstores, has the ASPCA ever considered, or does it already offer some type of "Seal of Approval" that would help consumers sort out which companies practice and support humane animal breeding? Thanks for all your efforts.
Annemarie Lucas: The ASPCA does not have a "Seal of Approval" for pet stores. We always encourage future pet owners to go to their local shelter to adopt one of the many animals in need of a home. There are also numerous rescue groups that have purebreds who have been relinquished to the shelter. If you want to get a purebred from a breeder the ASPCA is developing criteria to educate the public as to those breeders who are truly responsible and have the animals' best interests at heart. Most responsible breeders limit the number of litters an animal can have and at what age, and require the potential purchaser to come to their home in order to interview them to ensure the puppy will get a good permanent home.
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Orlando, Fla.:
I am a big animal lover and support animal cruelty punishments and the ASPCA, but I have noticed while watching "Animal Precinct" that the fines or punishments are really small and dont match the crime. Is this just me or do you also think that the punishments for animal cruelty are small and not appropriate?
Annemarie Lucas: I'm right there with you! It's so frustrating to see animal abusers walk away with a slap on the wrist. However, in New York, we are working very closely with ditrict attorneys who are very aggressively prosecuting animal cruelty cases. I think it's important for the public to get involved and voice their outrage to their elected officials regarding the penalities toward animal abusers.
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Watertown, Mass.:
Overall, do you think people are fully aware of the amount of animal cruelty there is?
Annemarie Lucas: The public may not be fully aware of what constitutes cruelty, especially neglect. The ASPCA has provided numerous tell tale signs to educate citizens what to look for. You can find them at the ASPCA's website, www. aspca.org, under "Fight Animal Cruelty." It's extremely important that everyone take part in looking out for the animals and report any suspected cases to your local authorities.
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Buckley, Wash.:
Hi Annemarie. My question is, what has been the most heart-breaking case you have done? Thanks for taking the time to do this. Keep up the good work! Leah
Annemarie Lucas: Thanks. It's so great to chat with everyone. I'm thrilled that so many people care about the welfare of animals. The most upsetting cases I come across are animals who have starved to death. This to me is the most heinous of crimes because it is a prolonged and painful way to die. It blows my mind that someone can stand by and watch an animal starve to death.
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Beach Park, Ill.:
As a veterinary technician, I see many cases of pit bull fighting and abuse. We have tried to report them to the police and the local Humane Society, but I'm told there is nothing we can do since the owner has brought the dog to the vet for medical attention. The police say they cannot help since there are no eye-witnesses. Many of these clients are repeat offenders coming in with different dogs every few months. Can you suggest any other ways to help stop this abuse? It's very common in our area. Thank You.
Annemarie Lucas: Dog fighting is illegal in all fifty states, with cockfighting illegal in forty-eight states (it is legal in Louisiana and New Mexico). Animal fighting is a federal offense under the Animal Welfare Act. Despite this, animal fighting, unfortunately, is prevalent in both urban and rural America.
In order to facilitate the enforcement of animal cruelty laws, many states provide veterinarians with civil and criminal immunity when they report abuse to the authorities. This provides veterinarians, oftentimes the first responders of suspected cases of cruelty, with the necessary protection to seek legal recourse for the animal and prevent future abuse from occurring. At the same time, it is important that veterinarians be able to provide the animal with the necessary treatment without fear of retribution.
Seventeen states currently provide veterinarians with immunity to report animal abuse. In Illinois, veterinarians are required to report aggravated cruelty or torture to the Department of Agriculture. In turn, veterinarians are provided immunity from civil, criminal and all other liability. Veterinarians are an important link in the prosecution’s ability to prove a case of animal abuse, especially if there are no witnesses. The fact that the owner brought the animal for treatment does not negate the charges. Rather, it will only help bring animal abusers to justice and protect the animal from further abuse. As you mentioned, many animal abusers are repeat offenders. Taking action and stopping the cycle of violence is the only thing to do.
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Manchester, Conn.:
Let me start by saying that I love the show and you! You do some wonderful work, and I'm glad to see so many people being charged with crimes against animals. It especially makes me happy to see so many animals saved by you and your group. I wish Connecticut had the same response to animal cruelty.
I do have a question that I hope you can help me with. There is a woman living in my neighborhood that has too many cats. From what I've been able to tell over the past 9 years or so, none of these cats get shots or fixed. The brothers and sisters mate every year and there are at least two babies every spring. They are not allowed in the house, only one or two that she likes. They wander the neighborhood, and I've heard so many complaints, especially against me. I put out food year round and water when it's really warm and we aren't getting much rain. I don't mind helping - I have 3 indoor cats of my own. What's stressing me is that these cats are lucky to live 2-3 years. I've spoken with our town "Dog Catcher" and was told they don't handle cats, but she would try to help if I couldn't get help from one of the non-profit organizations. Of course they are full, which leaves me at a loss. Do you have any suggestions on what else I can do to try and help these babies?
Keep up the great work!
Annemarie Lucas: Pet overpopulation continues to be a problem in the United States. This is especially the case with cats, which are prolific breeders. Although great strides have been made over the years, shelters across the country tragically must euthanize thousands of healthy, adoptable dogs and cats simply because there are too many. Many states have enacted laws that provide affordable spaying and neutering services through participating veterinarians. Other states have mandated the spaying and neutering of animals prior to adoption. Here at the ASPCA adoption facility in New York City, and at many shelters and humane societies across the country, we spay and neuter all animals prior to adoption. The ASPCA practices “early age” spay/neuter and, except for medical reasons, spays and neuter dogs and cats as young as two months or two pounds. This is the only fool proof way of ensuring that the animals we adopt do not contribute to the problem.
Connecticut enacted an animal population control program, which provides low cost spaying/neutering services. In addition, many veterinarians offer low cost or free services for stray animals through rescue groups. Many rescue groups can be found at www.petfinder.org.
The ASPCA strongly recommends that dogs and cats be kept indoors for both their health and safety and that of the public. In fact, many municipalities have local laws that prohibit dogs and cats from being at large. Unfortunately, because most jurisdictions do not require cat licensing, cats are not afforded the many protections provided to dogs. One of these is the absence of cats from the animal control laws. Your dogcatcher is probably correct in what she stated. This certainly points to the need to enact legislation that enables animal control to retrieve stray and lost cats, as well as some type of identification system in order to reunited owned cats with their owners.
In your particular situation, I would recommend finding a rescue group in your area through Petfinder, which may be able to assist you in locating a veterinarian in your area who will provide these services. Rescue groups also try to find homes for many needy animals and greatly assist overburdened shelters.
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Ashland, Ala.:
I would like to know how to go about reporting animal cruelty, and to whom to report it to, when you live in a county with no animal control and no Humane Society. I have already attempted to report certain abuse cases to the local police department, but nothing ever gets done. What would be my next step if you get no support from your local authorities?
Annemarie Lucas: Most states require municipalities to either provide animal control services directly or contract out for it. This may be the case in Ashland with the real problem being a lack of funding. The police are required to enforce all laws, including animal abuse statutes. The problem may be a lack of knowledge since many cruelty laws are not contained in the state’s penal laws, but in the agriculture laws. Alabama’s general cruelty law, fortunately, is in their criminal law (section 11.61.140). This should be brought to the attention of the local police department. Due to the general lack of knowledge by the police, the ASPCA’s Humane Law Enforcement Department has been conducting training programs so that the laws can be enforced more effectively. The ASPCA would be happy to provide assistance to your local police. In addition, Alabama’s cruelty laws (as well as all fifty state statutes) can be found at the ASPCA’s website under, Fight Animal Cruelty.
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Arnprior, Ontario:
Your show is even popular here in Canada. We like when we see the arrests and the animals getting a new life they deserve. Do you think people covicted of abuse should ever be allowed gurdianship of a pet again?
Annemarie Lucas: Increasingly, state legislatures are amending their cruelty statutes to provide judges with the power to order the animal forfeited to the local humane society where it can be placed in a good home. The convicted animal abuser permanently relinquishes all rights to the animal. This is an extremely important development in the law since it reflects society's views that animals should not be viewed simply as property and returned to the abuser/owner. This was previously the case and our law enforcement officers, after investigating and pursuing a cruelty case would have to return the animal to the owner. Part of the decision making process by judges is to have the abuser undergo a psychological evaluation to determine whether they are fit to care for an animal. This is crucial for the animal's future well-being.
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Merrionette Pk., Ill.:
Why can't anything be done about shuting down the terrible puppy mills and the horrendous conditions those poor dogs have to live in? How can we educate the public on where the puppies from the mills go(to pet shops) and why buying a puppy from a pet shop is suporting the puppy mills? I adopted a Maltese that was rescued from a puppy mill, and never in my whole life have I ever seen such fear in the eyes of a dog as I did in hers.
Annemarie Lucas: The ASPCA is extremely concerned about large-scale commercial breeding operations that mass-produce puppies. These operations, also referred to as “puppy mills,” oftentimes are outdoors and raise the animals in substandard facilities with little or inadequate veterinary care or socialization. Many of the puppies that come from puppy mills are ill or have congenital conditions due to the inbreeding and over breeding that may occur, and require extensive medical care when purchased. In fact, twenty-one states have enacted “pet shop lemon laws” to provide consumers who purchase puppies from pet shops with some financial recourse for the substantial veterinary care these animals require. In addition, because of the lack of socialization of the puppies with humans at an early age, many of them develop behavioral problems or become aggressive. Many of these dogs are subsequently relinquished to already overcrowded shelters.
Although commercial breeders are regulated under the federal Animal Welfare Act, the need for more aggressive enforcement by the United States Department of Agriculture is greatly needed. The ASPCA hopes to address this issue in the coming months in order to rectify the many problems associated with these operations. The ASPCA encourages the public to go to their local shelter or humane society and choose from the many wonderful dogs and cats in need of a home. Short of that, there are numerous rescue groups by breed if someone is looking for a particular dog. Lastly, if someone wants a purebred from a breeder the ASPCA only supports truly responsible breeders. Responsible breeders limit the number of litters of each dog and at what age the dog is bred, generally operate out of their home, and interview the potential purchaser to ensure that the animal goes to a good home. Responsible breeders have the animals’ best interest in mind and do not profit from this activity.
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Urbana, Ill.:
Hi Annemarie, what can the public do to help get animal welfare legislation passed in their communities?
Annemarie Lucas: Join the ASPCA's Advocacy Brigade! It's a free service and we alert you to pending legislation and how you can send a letter to your representative urging him/her to support it. Go to www.aspca.org, and click on to "Lobby." Letter-writing to your elected officials is still a big part in getting bills passed. Thanks so much for your concern for the animals. Together we can make a difference for them!
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Hartford, Conn.:
Hello, can you tell me how that dog that the officer adopted, Cane, is doing? That was my favorite episode! Also, didn't you adopt a kitten too? Please tell me about that Mastiff, he was so sad looking! God bless that officer and his family for adopting him.
Annemarie Lucas: Cane is doing great! He is a wonderful addition to Agent Pentangelo's family. Stormy, the kitten I rescued, is now living with Agent Sandano's best friend. He is gorgeous. I already have four cats and four dogs, so I decided he needed a home of his own. And he is spoiled rotten! Check out the Fight Animal Cruelty section of our website to watch our PSA of Agent Pentangelo and Cane. Thanks for askin'!
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Orange, N.J.:
How do you feel about the laws they are trying to pass about certain breeds of "so-called" vicious dogs?
Annemarie Lucas: The ASPCA is opposed to breed specific laws that restrict or prohibit the ownership of certain breeds, or deem certain breeds inherently dangerous. Although certain breeds may have the potential to become more aggressive if left untrained or unsocialized, to target certain breeds is neither fair nor effective. Breed specific laws do not necessarily punish the offenders who breed and train the animal to be aggressive and who may simply train another breed of dog to be aggressive. At the same time, breed specific laws unfairly punish owners of a targeted breed who responsibly care for the animal. As we say at the ASPCA, “it is the deed, not the breed.” The problem of breed specific legislation also prevents many homeowners from acquiring homeowner’s insurance. This has the potential of causing pet owners of these breeds to relinquish the animals to shelters, and may well have a chilling effect on people adopting them for fear that the insurance company will cancel their policy.
The ASPCA believes that pet ownership is a responsibility and a privilege. A part of this responsibility requires that dog owners abide by local and state laws such as licensing, leash laws and required inoculations. In addition, the ASPCA recommends that dogs be spayed or neutered for both the health of the animal and to combat the serious pet overpopulation problem in this country. The dog must also be well behaved. Owners, who train their dog to be aggressive or dangerous, regardless of breed, are usually in violation of their local and/or state dangerous dog law, and should be appropriately dealt with by law enforcement and the courts. A more effective solution to the problem of dangerous dogs and animal fighting is better funded animal control. For the most part, strong laws already exist. The problem lies with the lack of enforcement. If animal control were provided with the necessary financial resources, many of the dog attacks we read about could be prevented. The ASPCA estimates a budget of upwards of $4 per capita to support an effective animal control operation.
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Woodland Hills, Calif.:
First of all, thank you so much for all the good you do for the animals! Good Morning from California! My name is Laura I am a devout animal lover and concerned citizen. What do you do when you see an irresponsible owner who has their dog in the back of a pickup truck? I see this quite a lot expecially in the spring/summer months. If I am able to write down the license plate number, who can I call and will there be any follow-through? Also I saw a cat in a car the other day and the owner saw me see her and drove off asap.W ho can I call for this as well? Thank you for your time and keep up all the great work you do!
Annemarie Lucas: Luckily, California has a law that prohibits carrying an animal in an inhumane manner. It is section 597 of the penal code and is considered a misdemeanor. You can get a copy of this law from the ASPCA's website, www.aspca.org, Fight Animal Cruelty. The police are required to enforce cruelty laws so it is important that they be informed of this law.
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washingtonpost.com:
To watch the PSA of Agent Pentangelo and Cane, click here.
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Lafayette, Ind.:
We are Animal Control officers without arrest powers. We have tried to get more cooperation from all police agencies in arrests and charging animal cruelty, specifically training dogs for fighting/dogfighting. Do you have any suggestions?
Annemarie Lucas: Dog fighting is a serious offense and law enforcement should investigate this crime. Although the police have undergone rigorous training, animal crimes are specific offenses with which many law enforcement officers have little knowledge or training. It is important that they receive this in order to assist animal control in the enforcement of these laws. You may want to offer such a program. The ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement officers have much experience in this area and would be happy to provide assistance. We do training seminars throughout the country in order to instruct police officers regarding how to investigate animal cruelty. Thanks for all of your hard work, be safe out there.
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Detroit, Mich.:
I have been doing rescue for seven years now in the Detroit area. My friend and I have emptied three hoarder homes and have walked in filth and feces and stepped over dead animals in order to save the live ones. The most recent case took place in Pontiac, Mich., in early May. What can be done to protect the animals? We are taking a major health risk by entering these hoarder homes, but we will NOT stand by and let the animals suffer and die. Any suggestions? Animal abuse must be stopped. Thank you!
Annemarie Lucas: “Animal collectors” or “hoarders” are individuals who have far too many animals in the home, which they cannot properly care for. As you mentioned, many of the animals are quite ill, or have died due to a lack of necessary veterinary care and adequate food. These situations usually entail cats, which are not spayed or neutered, resulting in continuous breeding in the home. Animal hoarders have been known to harbor upwards of a hundred or more cats in small, unsanitary environments. Oftentimes, despite the dire condition of the animals, the hoarder believes he/she is properly providing for them. The hoarder himself or herself frequently suffers from a mental disorder and is in need of medical attention. It sounds like the animal hoarder in your case could be found in violation of Michigan’s animal cruelty law (section 750.50 of the Penal Code), which is a misdemeanor for the first offense and a felony for a second and subsequent offense. In addition, states are beginning to recognize animal hoarding as a specific problem and are enacting legislation to intervene to help both the person and the animals. Illinois was the first state to adopt such a law in 2002 and mandates that the hoarder undergo psychological counseling.
It is imperative that local law enforcement and the departments of health and social services take animal hoarding seriously and work together to provide the necessary help to both the person and the animals. Some animal hoarders, with treatment, may be able to care for some of the animals, provided they have been spayed or neutered and can be provided with appropriate care. These types of situations, however, must be monitored on an ongoing basis. Some hoarders may be prohibited from having any animals in the future due to their inability to responsibly care for them. Michigan’s cruelty statute already provides for the temporary and/or permanent forfeiture of abused animals The ASPCA would encourage Michigan to enact legislation similar to the Illinois law. The relevant agencies should work closely together to establish protocol in handling the many issues that arise in these situations.
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Woodland Hills, Calif.:
Hi Annemarie, this is Laura again from California. I had one more question. I was wondering how we go about making animal cruelty a felony and not a misdemeanor. Thank you.
Annemarie Lucas: California has already made many forms of animal cruelty a felony. In fact, California has some of most progressive laws on the book. It's important that law enforcement is aware of these laws and that they take these crimes seriously. It's just as important that the laws are enforced as getting them passed.
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East Brunswick, N.J.:
What is the biggest problem "myth" about animals?
Annemarie Lucas: I think the biggest myth is that companion animals can take care of themselves.
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Hamilton, Ohio:
I have a male cat that's about three years old, and he hasn't been neutered. I feel a sense of responsibility to have this done, but currently I can't afford vet bills and also someone told me that by the time an animal reaches this age it's dangerous to the animal to put it through the spaying/neutering process. Could you clear this up for me so I know if I can safely have Cuddlebug neutered (he's primarily an outdoor cat and I feel guilty knowing he's contributing to pet overpopulation) and also, do you know of any good free or discounted spay and neuter programs in the Cincinnati area?
Annemarie Lucas: Many states have enacted programs that offer low cost spay/neuter services. Many veterinarians also provide lower fees for people on limited budgets. To find out about programs in your area you can contact your local shelter or go to www.petfinder.org.
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Minneapolis, Minn.:
How does a concerned person do more for animal cruelty support? Is there some national level lobbying group (in addition to the ASPCA) to join?
Annemarie Lucas: Not to toot our own horn, but WE are the first and oldest national animal welfare advocacy group. Make sure you log onto www.aspca.org/lobby to learn more about how to affect legislation in your state and at the federal level. Thanks so much!
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Cedar Rapids:
What can the public do to stop puppy mills and the sale of them from pet stores?
Why does the AKC register puppy mills?
How much responsibility does the AKC take when a person who operates a puppy mill gets closed down for poor conditions? Are they fined also?
How can we increase the fines and/or sentences of people who abuse animals?
Annemarie Lucas: Many puppies sold at pet stores originated from puppy mills. So, it's important for the public not to patronize this industry by purchasing a puppy from these facilities.
Join the ASPCA Advocacy Brigade (go to www.aspca.org, Lobby) where you will learn in the coming months about some work that the ASPCA hopes to do on this subject.
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Mount Pleasant, Pa.:
There is a man I work with who is constantly bragging about how he "beat his dog till he broke every bone in its body." My daughter called the humane officer in our county. The humane officer said she "knew him well," as did other counties in the area and the State dog officer. They have been back and forth to check on the animal abuser for the past 15 years. Those who called in complaints are afraid of him and never went through with the process. I said I would testify what I heard him say. The dog officer was going to check on him 3 weeks ago but was told to take back-up. This took 3 weeks. In the meantime I overheard the abuser say he went up to feed them--they were all crazy and fighting amongst themselves and came after him so he shot a few. This man was to relinquish 25 dogs a few years ago for not having a kennel license. Well, when the officers went to pick them up they found 25 dead dogs at the end of his driveway. Well, yesterday they went and found the same situation. Friday, June 4th the State dog officer is going to go out and tell him to relinquish some dogs. If this man follows his pattern, he will shoot them. There has to be some way to keep him from doing this. What are your suggestions?
Annemarie Lucas: First of all, thanks for making the call to the correct authorities. It sounds like a very frustrating situation. Every state has different animal laws and statutes.
Pennsylvania’s cruelty statute makes it a 3rd degree felony for a second or subsequent violation, punishable by up to $15,000 and/or a maximum of 7 years imprisonment. Interestingly, Pennsylvania provides the agents of the Pennsylvania SPCA (which is not affiliated with the ASPCA) with the power to initiate a criminal proceeding similar to what the police can do. Both the SPCA and the police are authorized to seize the animals and hold them pending the outcome of the court proceeding to determine if the person violated the cruelty law. Law enforcement involved in this case should be urged to take the strongest action provided by the law given the history you describe. The Pennsylvania Legislature also should consider amending the cruelty law to include temporary and permanent animal forfeiture provisions, as well as a prohibition on future pet ownership by individuals in certain circumstances.
Keep fighting for these animals! They need you. It all starts with a phone call.
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Clinton, Ill.:
What can you do when you know a dog is being neglected? For example, it's a very poor shelter and the dog is extremely thin and looks to be in very poor health?? We've turned this situation into our local animal control, who has been too busy to check it out and the dog is suffering.
Thank You
Annemarie Lucas: This sounds like a violation of Illinois’ Humane Care for Animals’ Act (510 ILCS 70/section 3), which requires owners to provide wholesome food, water, adequate shelter, veterinary care to prevent suffering, and humane treatment. A violation of this law constitutes a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months’ imprisonment and a $200 fine.
Illinois’ situation with animal control is, unfortunately, not unusual. Typically, animal control operations around the country are grossly under funded. This leaves the few animal control officers with the difficult decision to attend to the most pressing cases. Animal control generally is responsible for licensing dogs, seizing dogs at large, retrieving stray animals and bringing them to the shelter, and investigating cases of cruelty. Although at one time dog license fees paid for these services, due to the general lack of enforcement of dog licensing and escalating costs, these fees no longer generate sufficient funding for this important service. Not only can a better-funded animal control operation greatly decrease the number of aggressive and dangerous dogs in the neighborhood, it can increase the number of animals returned to owners and drastically reduce the pet overpopulation problem. A larger allocation of the budget is required by municipalities, which are responsible for providing animal control. Innovative funding streams should also be considered by localities to further augment this public health and safety function
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Watertown, Mass.:
Hi Annemarie. First of all, want to say that I think it's wonderful that you and all the folks at the ASPCA are doing such a great job. People like you help make the world safer for animals. How well does the public support the ASPCA since it's a non profit organzation? Do you find that people in general are willing to help where ever they
can? Thanks. John
Annemarie Lucas: Many people around the country support the ASPCA. However, there is much more that needs to be done and we are always pressed for resources. People can support us in a variety of ways and can find out more information by visiting our website at www.aspca.org. Thank you for your interest and concern for the animals.
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Thompson, Ohio:
Does every state/city have the ability to empower an "ASPCA" type of crew? And if so, how can we initate the development of one in our area?
Annemarie Lucas: Great question! Unfortunately, we are a very unique unit in New York. We have the ability and arrest animal abusers. Most states do not have spca’s or the ability to create one. The ASPCA was created by a Special Act of the New York State Legislature back in 1866 through the efforts of Henry Bergh, our founder. Bergh believed that the only way to truly combat animal cruelty was through the enactment of laws prohibiting it, as well as the ability to enforce these laws. It was the founding of the ASPCA and the ability to enforce cruelty laws that sparked other spca’s to be created around the country. You may want to speak with your state representatives to do the same.
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East Brunswick, N.J.:
What is the most effective way you find to get people to spay and neuter?
Annemarie Lucas: Educate them about the pet overpopulation problem and the tragic need for shelters across the country to euthanize thousands of healthy animals because there are just too many of them. Also locating a participating veterinarian in New Jersey's Animal Population control program which provides low cost spay/neuter services may convince her to get the procedure done.
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Nottingham, Md.:
Hi Annemarie!
First let me compliment you on the outstanding job you do - you maintain your cool, you're not easily fooled by the offenders "stories" of why their animals are in such deplorable condition, and you always demonstate your love of animals. A cyber-hug to you for doing this tough, heartbreaking job.
My question: we see probably only a fraction of the cases you encounter on a daily basis. Does Animal Planet ever follow up on the most extreme cases and see if offenders actually got jail time or a heavy fine? Another question, what's the most egregious case you've seen to date? Did the abusers in that case ever get jail or fines or both?
Thanks again for being a wonderful defender of animal rights,
Hayley
Annemarie Lucas: Thanks so much for the support, it's greatly appreciated. Yes, Animal Planet actually does special interview shows a few times a year with the agents in order to follow up on past cases. You should check out those shows for a little further insight into the case and final disposition.
Back in 1999, I rescued Sparkles, a spaniel-mix puppy who was terribly beaten by her owner and she suffered numerous broken bones throughout her entire little body. She didn't make it. Needless to say, I will never forget the sound of her cries when I first found her. I arrested her owners and that felt good! Unfortunately, her owners received nothing more than probation. I wasn't able to save Sparkles and I will never forget her.
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St. Paul, Minn.:
Hi Annemarie,
Thank you for all the work that you do! I understand that we as citzens need to be educated about animal abuse, etc. and the information as to where to find these resources is helpful. BUT, what do we DO when we can't get law enforcement to respond to a situation. We are animal lovers and cannot sit back and watch an animal suffer. Where can we go if the first resource doesn't respond?
Annemarie Lucas: The police are required by law to enforce the cruelty laws. Many in law enforcement are unaware of the laws. The ASPCA's Humane Law Enforcement Department has been traveling around the country educating the police about these laws and training them on how to enforce them. We would be happy to assist your local officials.
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Greenville, S.C.:
Just wondering, do you have any kids?
Annemarie Lucas: Yes, I have four dogs and four cats! They are my babies!
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Highland, Ill.:
Thank you for talking with us today about animal welfare! My question is, what do you think are the best ways to educate the public? I want to work towards stopping animal cruelty at its source, but I'm not sure how to go about it.
Annemarie Lucas: How about starting with educating the children? Reach out to schools and teachers regarding the importance of humane education. Another way is to support your local animal shelter in any way you can either through fund raising, adoption, advertising. Amazingly, most people have no idea where there local animal shelter is or the many wonderful animals who need homes. Raising awareness with the public and evoking compassion for animals is key. Thanks for your concern!
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Palatine, Ill.:
Hello Annemarie,
Thank you for the amazing work you do on behalf of animals. I really respect your ability to be "tough" with the offenders and keep your emotions in check considering the nature of the cases you are involved with. Do you know if communities without dedicated law enforcement for the protection of animals seek volunteers to do this type of work - or do you have to be a law enforcement officer?
Annemarie Lucas: Every state is different - check with your local police department or humane society to find out. You can certainly begin by volunteering at your local animal shelter. Thanks for caring.
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Englewood, Colo.:
1. What kind of animal is your favorite?
2. How do you like your job?
3. Would you recemend this job?
4. About how many calls do you go on in a day?
I'm ten years old and want to become an officer at the ASPCA!! Always, Madeline
Annemarie Lucas: I'm a huge cat lover, although I love dogs too! I can't see myself anything other than what I do for a living - I'm very lucky. We might go on two jobs a day or ten jobs a day depending on the situation. Every day is a challenge and we never know what is going to happen. I definitely recommend that everyone do what they can to help animals in whatever capacity they can. Thanks for your concern. Best of luck!
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Annemarie Lucas: Thanks, everyone, for caring so much to chat with me today regarding animal cruelty. We had so many great questions that we couldn't possibly answer them all. In the next couple of days we hope to answer these questions at the www.aspca.org Let me leave you with this thought: It should never be considered your right to have an animal. It should always be considered a privilege. ANIMALS ROCK!
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washingtonpost.com:
Thanks for the great discussion, Annemarie!
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