These weeks have been challenging. We have been inundated with animals required to be held in protective custody. Though out of harm’s way, this is not how they should spend weeks or months of their lives. Being held as evidence can last too long – puppies grow up in kennels and dogs, boarded indefinitely, do not know the warmth of a home.
Senate Bill 569 “Relative to Animal Cruelty” is now being considered and would strengthen protections for animals used for breeding, toughen consequences for animal cruelty, and ensure the cost of caring for animals seized is shouldered by the defendant and not the agency responsible for their care. It is imperative that we work diligently to pass this critical legislation as it impacts animals’ lives.
The cost of caring for animals seized in cruelty/neglect cases is extraordinary; animals are often compromised and needing medical care. Courts may impose restitution, but rarely is it paid in full. Sometimes it is reduced, other times simply not paid. Probation departments don’t have resources to chase defendants, and we are left with the expense.
As I write, there are thousands of dollars in unpaid court-ordered restitution – a tremendous burden. SB 569 seeks to prevent this from happening and would help expedite not only the cost but our ability to more quickly rehome animals.
Animals from four cases are now in our custody for an unknown period of time, costs rising daily, the ultimate financial burden unknown. For now, this burden is ours. The question is, whose should it be. It’s time to put the responsibility with the animal’s owners and not those caring for them.
LISA DENNISON
Stratham
(The writer is executive director of the New Hampshire SPCA.)