What It Is

Thinking about our pet dogs as a victim of our own abuse can be hard to imagine but under financial pressure, owners often take a first step in abandonment of a pet. People often simply leave their pet by the roadside or in vacated premises.

One recent example of this was a dog left alone and unfed, reduced to eating the plaster off the wall. How can owners be reduced to this level of uncaring? Simply that under pressure, the dog becomes the least cared for member of the family.

Dog abandonment is not a new problem. For years, people have taken the family dog and left them on the highways and byways. These dogs then linger on the roads and are either killed by unsuspecting cars or become dangerous wild animals. No matter the reasons, these animals are defenseless creatures that need protection and care and something must be done.

Abandonment is not the only time that pets suffer. There is a case now where a man is suspected of torturing dogs to death. Police found over 40 live animals on his property in varying degrees of health, but most disturbing were the five canine skulls and a decapitated head. It has not yet been determined whether any of the live animals will be adoptable; many are anti-social or scared of human beings. The man, Robert Brunette was arrested on July 31st walking near a school in the next town over. Authorities have not commented on how they knew where to find him. Apparently, they had been alerted to possible animal abuse by someone who heard the animals crying in pain.

With our conscience disturbed what can we do to stop these abuses? Simply by keeping a watch out in a situation which seems not quite right.

You may feel it is not your place to say anything, but for the dog you are their only hope of being rescued before it is too late. Simple things like ringing a doorbell to see if an animal responds, are easy to do.

There are animal support hot lines you can call to help. Al these organizations care very much about the welfare of dogs and animals and will respond to your call.

Beyond reporting incidents, volunteer to foster an animal for a short time. The humane society is very good about helping with pet food should you foster a pet from them. You can also participate in fundraisers that contribute to the humane society. We can all make a difference by watching, reporting and lending a helping hand to our furry friends who need it.