The European author Milan Kundera wrote that “Humanity’s true moral test, its fundamental test, involves its attitude towards those who are at its mercy: animals.”
Our New Hampshire House of Representatives Committee on Environment and Agriculture has thus been tested during public hearings on Senate Bill 569 “relative to animal cruelty,” which calls for a commission to study statutory language involving the transfer of animals.
The subject of animal cruelty stirs strong emotions. The public showed up in full force at these hearings, as agricultural organizations, dog owner groups, and shelter and rescue groups, as well as plain old animal lovers, provided extensive testimony about animal welfare.
Despite the different perspectives and priorities, it was clear that everyone shared common ground. No one defended any inhumane practices. There was a consensus that municipalities should enforce laws designed to protect animals from abuse.
But as a farmer, I understand that livestock owners get constant scrutiny. Many well-meaning passers-by see animals they feel are “too thin” or “unsheltered” when in fact such animals may be heavy in milk or are outside by choice. Some animals prefer to lie down outside and let the snow pile up on their backs even though they have a shelter option.
The passion of animal rights activists rivals parental love for children. Indeed, many animals become family members. However, when circumstances develop such that animal or pet care becomes financially overwhelming, then owners face difficult decisions. Animal shelters provide a crucial service for such families.
The issue of animal hoarding was a focal point at our hearings – keeping excessive animals as domestic pets without being able to care for them. As compulsive hoarding can be a symptom of mental disorder – rather than deliberate animal cruelty – there was interesting testimony as to whether hoarders should be punished or treated.
We subsequently researched relevant statutes from other states as we considered the best way forward in New Hampshire.
I am proud that our E&A committee spent so much time and energy on an issue that we learned is near and dear to so many people – folks who spent over seven hours providing heartfelt testimony. While this type of committee work seldom gets front-page attention, it’s a wonderful example of bipartisan cooperation to craft legislation to help families.
And animals, too.
(Howard Pearl is a Loudon farmer and a state representative for Merrimack District 26, which includes Loudon, Canterbury, Boscawen, Northfield and Franklin’s Ward 3. He serves on the House Environment and Agriculture Committee.)