As we leave 2010, there are reminders we have come so far concerning animal welfare issues with the closing of many commercial kennels aka puppy mills in PA including the conviction of one notorious puppy miller, Derbe “Skip” Eckhart. He is currently serving a 6-23 month sentence in prison for the crimes he committed against animals. Not enough time in my or others’ estimation. The man clearly knew how to work the judicial system as I witnessed firsthand when I attended his court hearings (in which he was no-show a number of times) and his trial. At least we know he can no longer hold a kennel license in PA. Downside-he can go elsewhere like so many before him have done.
While Eckhart’s incarceration is clearly a victory, Act 119, our Dog Law, that has helped to shut down puppy mills, is taking strides backwards as I learned when I attended the Independent Regulatory Review Commission earlier this year. It appears dogs will be forced back onto wire flooring, exactly what this law said it wouldn’t do.
PA animal welfare legislation is lagging greatly. I attended a rally in Harrisburg in September to let our legislators know that animal welfare legislation needs to be taken not only more seriously but needs them to do something about it now. We’re tired of waiting decades to get new legislation which only asks basic needs for animals.
I want this madness to stop. I do understand we must take care of people but we animal advocates have been waiting and willing to do whatever it takes to make it easier for the legislator to pass legislation. We’ve heard empty promises. My hope for 2011 is that our new legislators are animal-friendly and hope key legislation passes.
This year has also seen the increase of animals being dumped at animal shelters all across the nation. Here in PA…it is a big problem. An emergency meeting was held the other month to discuss this dire situation. Some shelters are going no-kill and don’t have to accept animals which puts extra strain and pressure on other shelters which are forced to euthanize more animals. This takes a terrible toll on animal shelter workers. Shelters are also charging more for their services to townships and municipalities thus creating conflict between boroughs trying to keep their costs down along with the shelters trying to cover their increase in costs.
We also have a feral cat problem in our area. There are organizations that do Trap Neuter and Return (Release) , TNR, that offer low-cost spaying and neutering services. More cats are euthanized than dogs in shelters.
It’s a sad, deplorable situation no matter which way you look at the current situation. Too many animals, not enough homes. I know the no-kill movement disagrees with that point of view. But if you look at shelters, the overflow of animals is proof enough. Cats can be euthanized immediately in a PA shelter. Dogs have a 48 hr. waiting period. Both of these waiting periods are being asked to be extended in legislation. People are not adopting as they once did. In fact, more people are giving up their pets due to the economy.
While I sound all gloom and doom, I do see hope on the horizon. Let me explain why.
I have never seen more people involved wanting to make changes with animals. I see people and organizations working hard to make a difference. I have seen individuals taking matters into their own hands to help many, many animals. There are so many people who are truly making a difference in the lives of animals than I have ever witnessed.
I see grass-roots organizations clearly making a difference in the lives of animals. Many of you don’t see them and what they’re doing but trust me when I say, they are working hard for the animals.
I have met some amazing people this past year. I see the work they do and how hard they work on behalf of animals. I am so proud to call these people my friends. To all of you working on behalf of animals and making their lives better…..I thank you!
Here’s to 2011……..our fight is far from over and I look forward to working with my fellow animal advocates. Just know, we will never quit being the voices for those who can’t speak.
Have a Happy, Healthy and Safe New Year!