It's Our Voice That Can Make A Difference

Puppies and kittens are one of the most adorable temptations, with their big sweet eyes, soft fur, and playfulness. They tug at our hearts , as they run around and tumble with a toy, lick our faces, or curl up purring on our laps. But this picture changes every day. That puppy or kitten is growing up fast and may not be as cute and cuddling or as much fun to play with now. 

It's heartbreaking to see a dog chained up and forgotten in a backyard looking towards the house wondering if someone will remember to feed him today. He jumps up and down when someone finally does come outside, but lays back down when they walk on by. He's outgrown his collar and it's starting to grow into his neck, and he's covered with fleas. Eventually they stop feeding him altogether and the dog slowly starves to death while he can smell his owner's supper cooking every night.

Sadly, this is the story for so many dogs. Neglect and abuse has become a way of life for them. Hunger and pain are the only things they feel. Help is always just a little too late and they die cold, alone, and miserable.

It is very frustrating to hear about these cases. If these irresponsible pet owners are found guilty of animal abuse, most will only pay a small fine, and they are allowed to own future animals as well.

We can stsrt to make a difference by contacting our state legislators, elected officials, and governors about tougher sentencing for these crimes. If enough people speak up and demand changes in our laws, they will listen. We are the people who vote them into office, and we are the people who can vote them out.

Sally Hayward, Vice President