Community encouraged to support Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month

WARWICK — The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has declared April "Prevention of Animal Cruelty Month." During this time and throughout the year people are urged to educate themselves and others about existing animal cruelty laws and to support pending legislation.

The Warwick Valley Humane Society is requesting the assistance of the eyes and ears of the community to report any and all suspected animal abuse or neglect.

Domestic pets, farm animals and wildlife are protected under Article 26 of the New York State Agriculture and Markets Law. Animal cruelty is a misdemeanor or felony crime and punishable by one to four years in prison and/or up to a $1.000 to $4,000 fine.

Suzyn Barron, president of the Warwick Valley Humane Society, explained that animal cruelty involves intentional harm, including but not limited to, animal fighting, abandonment, starvation and abuse, which causes severe harm or death.

Neglectful conditions are lack of necessary veterinary care, unsanitary or unhealthy living conditions, lack of grooming causing matting and discomfort, lack of appropriate shelter, clean water and food.

"Animal Cruelty is a valuable predictor of present and future violent individuals and occurs in all social, economic and cultural denominations," she said. "According to the ASPCA, a strong connection has been documented linking animal abuse and domestic violence."

The role of the Humane Society, she further explained, is to assist local, county and state law enforcement agencies in the alleviation, investigation and prosecution of those responsible for an animal's suffering.

"Most of the cases we see, are unintentional neglect and we are often able to inform and assist the owner in correcting the situation," said Barron. "In some instances, it is necessary to permanently remove the animal or animals from the home."

Throughout the years, the Warwick Valley Humane Society has been involved and instrumental in the conviction of cases involving intentional starvation, deliberate withholding of critical medical attention, dog fighting, abandonment and several hoarding situations.

The Society has established "The Princess Fund," in memory of Princess, an 80-pound St. Bernard, who was intentionally starved, lost 50 pounds and froze to death in January 2007. Donations to this specific fund help the Society save other animal victims and may be mailed to Warwick Valley Humane Society, P.O. Box 61, Warwick, NY 10990.

"During the month of April, we are asking local businesses and residents to 'Go Orange,' and display an orange ribbon to help us raise awareness about animal cruelty," said Barron

To report animal cruelty, call the confidential animal abuse/neglect line at 845-987-SEEN (7336).