Being Cruel Isn't Cool
That may seem like a lame title but after what we have seen this week it's actually a bit of a suppression for how we truly feel at the moment. Personally, I have been actively involved in rescue for around six years now. I have seen some very sad situations when it comes to animals and my heart has been broken repeatedly. But just when you think that you have seen it all and that nothing will surprise you......
SURPRISE!!
You get to bare witness to the unexpected, the cruel, the unjust, the "how could anyone do that?". I would like to say that it gets easier but it doesn't. Instead, it's a roller coaster of emotion from heartbreak to being infuriated and still to this day I haven't figured out quite how to channel all the emotions that come with this mission.
As a person, I don't feel as though I ask for much from society. I am educated, I do my job well, I contribute to the community and the world as much and as well as I can. Honestly, all I am really asking for is a little compassion....a little humanity...and yet you would think I was asking for the world.
The Constant Request
Living in a small community in this part of the world is tough.
The animal laws here are practically non-existent and the ones that are in place are rarely enforced. The chances of charging someone with animal neglect or cruelty is nearly impossible. Laurel County has NO county ordinances that help the shelter or even law enforcement enforce animal rules or policies. We are hamsters in the wheel that never actually goes anywhere...and it stinks.
There are no laws or rules regarding pet population and therefore our area is always overpopulated with litter after litter of dogs and cats...it's sad and it never ends. Then, what you get are people that have their dogs tied with chains in their backyard...green water...dilapidated houses...no vaccinations...no vet care...no heart worm prevention...tied to a chain day after day...hour after hour..for their entire life. Don't believe me? Take a drive around....
So then you get the never ending requests for re-homing....
We try to help as much and as often as we can but sometimes it takes a little while for a rescue spot to open up...as was the case with this particular dog.
Meet RJ
Photo June 8, 2016
One of our board members was asked to help RJ and his pal Julie find rescue to find new homes. For months our board member, Robin, posted these two dogs...we sent messages asking for rescue help but there just weren't any available...UNTIL THIS WEEK! We got lucky! A great rescue contacted Robin and offered to help both dogs..what a relief! We were excited...we were ecstatic! That was until we went to pick RJ up for his transport......
**WARNING --- Graphic Photos**
It seemed as though at some point, while we were searching for rescue, RJ got his foot wrapped/tangled in a cord which cut off the circulation. The person responsible for RJ did NOT seek medical treatment and this is what happened as a result....
Photo: July 11, 2016
**INSERT GASP HERE**
We are NOT a rescue. We do NOT have funds for things like amputations but we knew this dog needed immediate medical care...
So what did we do??
RJ was taken straight to the vet where his leg was amputated..the infection was threatening his life. This morning I visited him and he was a happy, wiggly dog..happy to be free of the pain he had been enduring. His spot in rescue is secured and he will be transported once he feels up to it.
RJ will have a happy ending.
But what about those that don't get the help they need?
First, let me make it very clear...it is a LAW here in KY that you MUST seek medical treatment for animals that have injuries such as this one!
View KY ANIMAL LAWS at the link below:
What can you do?
- Seek medical treatment for your animals
- Make sure your animals are vaccinated and on heart worm preventative
- Report animal cruelty to law enforcement as many times as needed
- THERE ARE PROGRAMS OUT THERE TO HELP PEOPLE WITH VET BILLS
- Seek assistance/help
- Contact local veterinarians
- Educate others
- DO THE RIGHT THING! DON'T LEAVE AN ANIMAL TO SUFFER REGARDLESS OF THE SITUATION, CONSEQUENCE, OR POSSIBLE OUTCOMES.
To help RJ please send monetary gifts to:
PayPal : woofpacked@gmail.com
Or Contact Corbin Animal Clinic Directly
We also have a dog, Annie, that was hit by a car. Her leg will be amputated this week. She is located at:
London Vet Clinic or send a gift at PayPal: woofpacked@gmail.com
Until next time,
Tail Wags from 3 Legged Dogs
