Board Addresses County on Inhumane Animal Treatment

By Allyson Dix

Jobe Publishing, Inc.

 

Several supporters were present at the Metcalfe County Fiscal Court last Thursday for a presentation given by the local Animal Shelter Board with a pre-drafted proposal for an ordinance regarding the humane treatment of animals.

Donna Lafever, the wife of local veterinarian Dr. David Lafever and vice president of the board, shared a photo of a severely malnourished dog to the court, stating this particular case is one of the worst cases she’s ever seen after a little boy found it in a ditch.

“I have several cases of animal abuse and we just want to try to do something about that and stop some of this horrible stuff,” Lafever said.

Board member PJ Martin said while most cases will remain unknown as far as who is responsible for the inhumane treatment of an animal, the ones they are aware of should be held accountable for their actions.

“The ones that have to be confiscated (due to inhumane treatment), there needs to be a count of each animal,” Martin said regarding potential criminal charges. For example, if there are 12 dogs on a property that are being treated inhumanely, that would equate to 12 counts in a criminal case.

Magistrate Daniel Bragg said he supports such an effort, but his concern is some of the language in the proposed ordinance.

“I love the spirit of it, and I agree we need something,” Bragg said, before pointing out a few clauses in the wording.

For example, one of the definitions listed is that an animal is considered “every living creature, both domestic and wild, except for humans.” He pointed out there could be issues arise, for example, when it comes to coyote hunting, livestock, and game.

“We’re not looking to go after farmers or hunters,” Martin said. “If we need to tweak that, that’s not a problem.”

However, Martin expressed frustration over the many times she has witnessed malnourished animals such as horses and cows. She also, as editor of the local newspaper, said she receives calls a few times each year from people who are also seeing the same.

When asked by Magistrate Ronnie Miller about what is being or has been done in such situations, Martin said that while she knows the sheriff’s department has been notified and reports have been made, it is unclear what happens after that.

County Attorney Sharon Howard said the state laws for inhumane treatment are pretty good, but solid evidence is needed for criminal charges to be pressed.

Martin said the local animal control officer is a part-time employee, and if he were interested, there are free online training sessions. She also said those charged with responding to inhumane animal treatment complaints can be made aware that they need to take photos for evidence.

“There’s only so far he can go before law enforcement has to come in with him at a certain point,” Martin explained. “He’s allowed to give citations and go back to check on it, but he’s not allowed to actually arrest anyone, as you know.”

Bragg pointed out that while such treatment is illegal per state laws, having an ordinance approved would help to ensure that these situations are enforced and are taken seriously.

Martin also introduced the potential for an annual licensing fee for breeders in the county, including an inspection of the premises of those who breed animals.

Judge/Executive Larry Wilson said the local animal shelter board has diligently worked hard over the last two years, even raising a lot of money that is turned over to the county for the spay and neuter voucher program. Individuals wishing to spay or neuter their pet can submit a receipt to the county and receive a check to help reimburse part of the expense.

Wilson also recommended tabling the item until the next meeting, where it is expected that a rewritten ordinance will be reviewed.