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February 2010
Humane
Society 'Top Dogs' in Indy, New Orleans Support Their
Teams with 'Shelter Bowl' Challenge
July 2009
TOWN OF KENTWOOD PREPARED
TO CLOSE ANIMAL SHELTER INSPECTION REVEALS SERIOUS PROBLEMS
AND VIOLATIONS
July 2009
Animal
Shelters in Need: Inspections Reveal Multiple Problems
July 2009
Dog's
Death Prompts Response From Humane Society of Louisiana.
Humane Group Asks Sheriff to Reopen Case
May 2009
First
Annual New Orleans Veggie Fest Scheduled for Sunday,
May 17th.
Festival to Promote a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle!
May 2009
Humane
Society of Louisiana Issues Warning to Horse Owner:
Horses Malnourished and Need Immediate Care
April 2009
More
Dogs Die From Poisoning Suspect Remains at Large
April 2009
Humane
Groups Join Forces to Aid Horses in Need Equine Education
Workshop and Open House Planned
April 2009
Humane
Society of Louisiana Opens 9th Chapter: Satellite Chapters
Assist Animals in Rural Areas
April 2009
Injured
Seagull Gets Helping Hand
January 2009
HUMANE
SOCIETY OF LOUISIANA UNCOVERS CARCASSES AT EUNICE ANIMAL
SHELTER
November 2008
It's
not Bedrock, but Meet the Rubble Family...Discarded
Canines Rescued From Pile of Debris
(Port Allen) --
October 2008
The Humane Society of
Louisiana recently presented its Volunteer of the Year
Award to Marla Chapotel
October 2008
Humane
Society of Louisiana to Launch Pet Food Drive for Hurricane-Stricken
Areas and Will Host First Annual Hurricane Pet Rally
and Reception
August 2008
VIOLATIONS
RAMPANT AT NAPOLEONVILLE FACILITY
March 2008
WILDLIFE
GETS HELPING HAND AT TICKFAW STATE PARK
November 27, 2007
CIRCUS
ELEPHANTS AT CENTER OF CONTROVERSY
October 1, 2007
REWARD
OFFERED FOR CAT IN LEGHOLD TRAP
October 2, 2007
STARVING
HORSES IN ACADIA
July 31, 2007
New
"Animal Friendly" License Plate to Raise Funds
for Mass Sterilization of Pets
June 11, 2007
LIVINGSTON
RESIDENT CHARGED WITH CRUELTY TO ANIMALS MINIATURE DACHSHUND
DIES FROM BULLET WOUND
May 7, 2007
HUMANE
SOCIETY TO MONITOR ANIMAL CRUELTY CASES
May 7, 2007
WILD
BOARS REMOVED FROM CITY PARK
April 2, 2007
ST.
BERNARD SHELTER FAILS INSPECTION - ANIMALS AND WORKERS
EXPOSED TO UNSANITARY AND UNSAFE CONDITIONS
News Release:
For Immediate Use
February, 2010
Humane Society 'Top Dogs' in Indy,
New Orleans Support Their Teams with 'Shelter Bowl'
Challenge
Contact persons: John Aleshire, CEO, Indianapolis
Humane Society - 317.872.5650ext. 104
Jeff Dorson, Executive Director, Humane Society of Louisiana
- 901.268.4432
(Miami, Florida) - The competition between New Orleans
Saints and Indianapolis Colts has both cities eagerly
awaiting the outcome of Superbowl Sunday, and it has
also spurned a newly developed rivalry between the cities’
animal shelters.
Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society
of Louisiana, based in New Orleans, gamely visited the
Indianapolis Humane Society and met with its CEO, John
Aleshire, on Monday, February 1st to discuss general
shelter operations and protocol. However, the discussions
quickly turned to the larger question of which team
would win the Big Game. To underscore the growing rivalry,
Aleshire gave Dorson a present of a package of sugar
cookies, decorated with the Indy logos. To show his
gratitude, Dorson has given Aleshire a copy of the DVD
The Crying Game, to remind him that the outcome of Sunday's
game will probably disappoint him and his staff.
As the upcoming championship football game was discussed,
the two shelter directors envisioned a second contest:
this one played between both shelters. The resulting
Super Shelter Bowl pits the two humane societies against
each other in a race to raise the most funds by midnight
Sunday, February 14th, Valentines' Day The contest is
simple: society supporters and those wishing to show
their support for their favorite football team can make
a donation to either humane society on their websites
or by sending in a contribution by mail. To count in
the tally of the Super Shelter Bowl, donations sent
by mail must be postmarked no later than Saturday, February
14th
The contest has already divided family loyalties within
the Dorson family, which, like the Manning family, has
ties to both New Orleans and Indianapolis. Having been
born and raised in Bloomington, Indiana, Jeff Dorson
moved to New Orleans in 1988, where he started the Humane
Society of Louisiana and remains as its Executive Director.
Roland Dorson, Jeff's brother, is the CEO and President
of the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, a business
acquaintance of Mr. Aleshire, and has rumored to have
already pledged a contribution to the Indianapolis Humane
Society.
"Having heard that my brother will be giving a
donation to the opposing 'team', I did what any other
sibling would do in such a situation, I ran and told
my Mother," confessed Jeff, younger brother of
Roland. "Unfortunately, my Mom is also a resident
of Indianapolis, and was knitting a "Go Colts"
scarf when I told her, so I am not sure if that will
change the outcome. However, I am preparing myself for
a good fight in this upcoming contest. Hurricane Katrina
tossed us around a little in New Orleans, so I am confident
that we can also take the Humane Society of Indianapolis'
hot air," says Dorson, alluding to Mr. Aleshire
boasts of performing well in this contest.
News
Release: For Immediate Use
July, 2009
TOWN OF KENTWOOD PREPARED TO CLOSE
ANIMAL SHELTER INSPECTION REVEALS SERIOUS PROBLEMS AND
VIOLATIONS
(NEW ORLEANS) -- The Humane Society of Louisiana recently
conducted an inspection of the Town of Kentwood Dog
Shelter as part of its comprehensive review of all animal
sheltering facilities throughout the state and found
multiple violations of city and state laws that govern
animal shelters. The society also found the facility
to be in general non-compliance with national shelter
standards. The shelter report, which was submitted to
Kentwood Mayor Harold Smith late last week, was discussed
at the most recent town council meeting and led, it
can be assumed, to the decision to suspend operations
at the shelter. The administration is seeking to sign
an agreement with the parish animal control department
to take over services.
The inspection report detailed serious structural problems
with the small cinderblock building that has housed
stray dogs for many decades. The shelter was never designed
to house animals. The city never installed a drainage
system nor a septic tank, so waste has simply accumulated
for years, heaped off to one side of the kennel runs.
Since there is no way to adequately remove the waste,
the building has been a fertile breeding ground for
harmful bacteria, disease, and parasites. The building
is poorly ventilated, damp, and poorly lighted, providing
the dogs will little fresh air or light. "These
conditions combine to make for a 'perfect storm' to
spread disease and infection," says Jeff Dorson,
Executive Director of the group. "There is no way
to humanely house animals under these primitive conditions,"
adds Dorson.
The report also revealed non-compliance with the state
adoption law, which requires adopting agencies to only
release animals under a contractual basis. Under the
state pet adoption law, which was passed almost a decade
ago, every animal must be sterilized within 30 days
from the date of its adoption. This law was never applied
in Kentwood, and no adequate adoption process was ever
developed. Dogs were simply given away or passed around
to family and acquaintances of the Shelter Manager,
Mr. David Sellers, according to his own statements.
Mayor Harold Smith maintained that the city was required
to accept a payment of $75 per dog, of which $50 was
refunded when proof of a rabies certificate was presented.
This arrangement, whenever it was enforced, however,
also failed to satisfy the state adoption law.
Two puppies that were rescued on October 30th from the
Kentwood were barely alive when shelter inspectors revisited
the facility and gained custody of them. The Catahoula
puppies were too weak to stand and were full of parasites
and mites and were suffering from acute malnutrition.
The puppies were not given proper puppy food and were
ravenous by the time they were given a proper diet.
"We suspect that these puppies would have died
over the weekend at this shelter, and we are delighted
that they were brought out, given medical care, a proper
diet, and are now thriving. We hope that they will be
the last dogs to be impounded at the Kentwood shelter,"
Dorson concludes.
The group has been monitoring and inspecting private
and public animal sheltering facilities since its inception
in 1988. However, in light of the problems that have
surfaced at the Jefferson Parish Shelter in 2007, when
more than a dozen dogs were accidentally poisoned, and
the Tangipahoa Shelter, the site of mass euthanasia
of animals two months ago, the group has accelerated
its inspection process and is conducting many more inspections.
Just recently, the group has inspected shelters at Mamou,
Jennings, Oberlin, Napoleonville, and Lake Arthur. Copies
of these inspection reports are also available for review.
Media representatives may also contact the group's principle
shelter inspector, Ms. Dawn Taylor-Church, by calling
435-899-0985. A copy of the shelter inspection report,
photos taken at the shelter, and Mr. Dorson's letter
to Mayor Smith are attached.
The Humane Society of Louisiana is one of the largest
animal protection and advocacy organizations in the
state with more than 10,000 members. For more information,
please visit their website at www.humanela.org .
News Release:
For Immediate Use
Date: July 20, 2009
Animal Shelters in Need: Inspections
Reveal Multiple Problems
(Crowley, LA) -- The Humane Society of Louisiana recently
toured the animal shelters that are operated by the City
of Crowley and the Parish of Acadia and submitted their
findings to city and parish officials. The shelters operate
independently from one another but are located only a
mile from each other. The Humane Society of Louisiana,
based out of New Orleans, submitted its reports to the
Mayor of Crowley and the Acadia Parish administration
and is awaiting a response from both parties. "We
gave both administrations short and long term items that
need to be addressed," says Jeff Dorson, Executive
Director of The Humane Society of Louisiana.
The group outlined the facilities' structural and operational
strengths and weaknesses, and noted the high performance
level of all the staff. "All the employees want to
make the animals safe and secure while in their possession,
and we would like to give them the tools, equipment, and
facilities that would make their jobs easier and more
comfortable for the animals," Dorson adds.
Presently, the housing conditions for the animals are
less than ideal at both shelters. Space is limited and
many national sheltering guidelines are being overlooked.
"We are hoping that these reports will be taken seriously
and that many if not all of our issues will be addressed,"
adds Dorson.
News Release:
For Immediate Use
July 20, 2009
Dog's Death Prompts Response From Humane
Society of Louisiana. Humane Group Asks Sheriff to Reopen
Case.
(Ethel, LA) -- "Little Man," according to his
owner, Ms. Patricia Thompson, an Ethel resident, was a
friendly and playful pit bull who would never harm anyone.
Unfortunately, Little Man got out out of his residence
at 3020 Hwy 957 in Ethel, on June 23, and wandered on
to a nearby neighbor's property. The owner of the property
saw the dog, quickly retrieved an AK 47, and fatally shot
the dog eight times.
Horrified, Ms. Thompson quickly called the East Felicity
Sheriff office who dispatched a unit to investigate the
shooting. Deputies listened to the complaint and decided
that there was insufficient grounds to pursue the matter.
Days later, Ms. Thompson, feeling that her dog's death
was unwarranted, visited the sheriff's office and spoke
with a detective who likewise dismissed Ms. Thompson's
complaint as irrelevant.
"We reviewed Ms. Thompson's complaint, and we found
that there was sufficient evidence to cite the neighbor
for cruelty to animals. We want the district attorney
to review the information and make their determination
on the merits of the case. We have outlined our interpretation
of the state laws and the applicable case law in correspondence
to the sheriff. We have not received a reply, but we are
hopeful that our legal arguments, prepared by an attorney,
will encourage the sheriff to reopen this case,"
says Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society
of Louisiana.
News Release:
for Immediate use
Contact persons: Jeff Dorson, HSL Director, 901-268-4432,
Dr. Leslie Brown, festival spokesperson, 985-264-0188
First Annual New Orleans Veggie
Fest Scheduled for Sunday, May 17th.
Festival to Promote a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle!
(New Orleans) - The city's first Veggie Fest, which
will promote the benefits of a healthy, plant-based
diet and lifestyle, will take place on Sunday, May 17th
at Cafe Bamboo, located at 435 Esplanade Ave in New
Orleans, from 11am -6pm. The festival, the first of
its kind in more than a decade, will offer vegetarian
cooking demonstrations, nationally recognized guest
speakers, and plenty of information on vegetarian cooking
techniques and recipes. Admission is $5.00 per person.
Children under 2 years of age are free. Proceeds will
benefit the Humane Society of Louisiana, a New Orleans-based
humane organization that promotes the compassionate
treatment of animals.
"We are delighted that our city will be hosting
an annual festival that focuses on food that is good
for both us and our environment. Scientific studies
have proven that a vegetarian diet uses fewer natural
resources such as land and water than a meat-based diet.
Factory farming produces more greenhouse gas emissions
each year than all cars in the United States combined
due to the pollution, deforestation, and desertification
caused in the production and distribution of cattle,
pigs, and other livestock for food. Aside from lessening
the detrimental environmental implications, a plant-based
diet leads to far fewer health problems than a diet
rich with meat and dairy products. This festival, which
we believe will grow very quickly in the coming years,
will offer vegetarian dishes both from Cafe Bamboo and
dozens of vegan and vegetarian vendors from around the
nation," says Jeff Dorson, Humane Society of Louisiana
Director. "If people are interested in exploring
this type of lifestyle for either health or ethical
reasons, this would be a perfect place to begin to get
answers and information," adds Dorson.
Dr. Leslie Brown, a local vegan pediatrician, is the
festival's spokesperson and is available for interviews
through the months of April and May. Dr. Brown can be
reached by calling 985-264-0188. .
"Eating a nutritious diet of whole plant foods
has so many benefits-to our health, to the health of
our planet, and to animals, who are treated inhumanely
in the production of meat, dairy and egg products. We
can make a huge impact by changing what we eat!"
says Dr. Brown.
For more information, please visit www.nolaveggiefest.com
or call 1-888-6-humane. The Humane Society of Louisiana
is one of the state's largest animal protection organizations,
with more than 10,000 supporters. The group promotes
the legal protection of all animals as well as the vegetarian
lifestyle.
April 22,
2009
News Release: For Immediate Use
Contact Person: Jeff Dorson, Director, Humane Society
of Louisiana, 901-268-4432
More Dogs Die
From Poisoning Suspect Remains at Large
(Eunice, LA) - - Five more dogs, three from a single
household, and two Poodles belonging to another resident,
recently died from the effects of anti-freeze poisoning.
Three dogs belonging to Ms. Kathy Beck, (337-363-7640)
who resides at 7264 Grand Prairie Road, in Ville Platte,
died recently from a fatal dose of anti-freeze, based
on a report compiled by Dr. Coriel, the family veterinarian
who examined all three dogs. Mia and Bandit, both Peekapoos,
and Sophie, a Poodle, died within a few days from one
another.
Two other Poodles, who lived in the same neighborhood,
died from poisoning during the same time period. Sheriff's
deputies were recently called to the scene and filled
out a report, but no charges have been made and no suspects
have been identified.
In December of 2008, several other dogs in different
neighborhoods in Ville Platte and Church Point also
died from poisoning. A half-eaten roasted chicken carcass,
which had been soaked in anti-freeze, was found close
to the dog's residences. No arrests were made in that
case.
The Humane Society of Louisiana, to spur interest in
solving this crime, is offering a $1,000 reward to anyone
who has information that will lead to the arrest and
conviction of those responsible for these crimes. To
contact the Humane Society of Louisiana, call 1-888-6-humane,
or visit their website at www.humanela.org. To start
humane programs in your community or join the nearest
humane society, please contact Mr. Dorson at 901-268-4432.
The Humane Society is one of the largest humane organizations
in Louisiana with approximately 10,000 supporters.
News Release:
For April 22, 2009
Contact: Jeff Dorson, Director, Humane Society of Louisiana
(901-268-4432)
Humane Society of Louisiana Issues Warning
to Horse Owner: Horses Malnourished and Need Immediate
Care
(Marydale, LA) - - Acting on several complaints, Jeff
Dorson, the Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana,
traveled to Marydale last week with an equine health
specialist to evaluate several horses belonging to Mr.
Robert Ross, a LaFourche Parish resident. All three
horses belonging to Mr. Ross were found to be underweight,
two of them severely. One horse, a white and brown Paint,
also had old injuries to both legs, which had been left
untreated. Two other horses housed at the same stable
were underweight as well. The group has sent warning
notices to those owners, asking them to increase the
feed for their horses. The stable is located on the
corner of Hyland and Ridgeway Streets.
"We spent a lot of time with Mr. Ross, explaining
how to better care for his horses. Frankly, we were
shocked at the horses' conditions. However, Mr. Ross
assured us that he would follow all our suggestions,
and he has kept in touch with us since our visit, keeping
us apprised of his actions. We provided Mr. Ross with
a lengthy list of our recommendations, which covered
the proper nutrition, sanitation, and medical needs
of his horses. If Mr. Ross fails to comply, we will
confer with the sheriff's department on our next course
of action," says Dorson.
"Unfortunately, we have received dozens of calls
concerning starving horses this spring. When there is
a downturn in the economy, people often stop buying
pellets and hay for their horses, which leads to a gradual
weight loss to their horse and herd. We are getting
calls from around the state on a regular basis. Horses
need supplemental feed and regular veterinary care in
order to thrive. It takes a lot of time, money, and
resources to adequately care for large animals,"
adds Dorson. "Horses can't just be put out on a
pasture and forgotten about. Horses require certain
feed, supplements, grooming, annual vaccinations, regular
health checks and daily care," says Dorson.
To help educate the public and horse owners on the
proper care of horses, the Humane Society of Louisiana
and Rescue Ranch, an equine sanctuary and rehabilitation
center located in Plaquemines Parish, will conduct an
upcoming equine education workshop. The 1 1/2 hour workshop
will take place on Saturday, May 16th, in Belle Chasse,
Louisiana, from noon to 1: 30 pm. Workshop registration
is $15, which will include refreshments and handouts.
Scholarships are available. For more information on
the workshop, please call 1-888-6-humane. The workshop
is open to all members of the public.
"I personally invited Mr. Ross to attend this workshop.
Mr. Ross is keen on participating but needs transportation,"
Dorson says. If others are planning to attend this workshop
from this area, please contact Mr. Dorson at 901-268-4432.
News
Release: For Immediate Use
Contact Persons: Lori Wilson, Director, Rescue Ranch,
(504-818-6120);
Jeff Dorson, Director, Humane Society of Louisiana (901-268-4432)
Humane Groups Join Forces to Aid
Horses in Need
Equine Education Workshop and Open House Planned
(Belle Chasse, LA) - - The Humane Society of Louisiana
and Rescue Ranch have joined forces recently to respond
to several horse abuse complaints. As a result, the
two groups agreed to host a joint Equine Education Workshop
to educate people about the proper care and upkeep of
horses.
Since the beginning of Spring, the Humane Society of
Louisiana has received more than a dozen complaints
pertaining to the neglect and starvation of horses throughout
the state. Two weeks ago, the group received a tip concerning
an ailing horse that had a rope deeply embedded in his
neck. With the help of Lori Wilson, Director of Rescue
Ranch, the horse was located, removed, and treated by
a veterinarian. Charges against the owner, who works
offshore, are expected to be filed within the next few
weeks.
Just last week, Lori Wilson accompanied Jeff Dorson,
Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana, as they
traveled to Thibodaux to inspect horses at a small stable
outside city limits. The two examined five horses and
found all of them to be malnourished and in various
states of neglect. The group left instructions for the
owner and has asked the parish sheriff's department
to monitor the horses' progress.
"We are concerned about the high number of calls
we are getting involving horses and other hooved animals.
It appears that the deteriorating economy is causing
some horse owners to cut back on feed and stop providing
adequate medical care for their animals," says
Jeff Dorson. "Based on the number of calls we are
receiving, it is a situation that appears to be worsening,"
he adds.
To help educate individuals on the proper care and upkeep
of equines, the 1 1/2 hour course will cover the nutritional
needs of horses, exercise requirements, and overall
health issues related to equines. The workshop will
include a tour of Rescue Ranch, a riding academy and
rehabilitation center, and it is also part of an open
house reception scheduled for Saturday, May 16th, from
11 am to 2 pm. The registration fee for the workshop
is $15.00, which includes refreshments and handouts.
Scholarships to cover the cost of the workshop are also
available. Call 1-888-6-humane to apply for a scholarship
workshop registration.
News Alert:
For Immediate Use
Contact Person: Jeff Dorson, Director, Humane Society
of Louisiana
(901-268-04432)
Humane Society of Louisiana Opens
9th Chapter:
Satellite Chapters Assist Animals in Rural Areas
(Jennings, LA) - - The Humane Society of Louisiana recently
established its ninth chapter, located in Jefferson Davis
Parish. Chapters have also previously been established
in Acadia, St. Landry, Washington, Union, Lincoln, St.
Tammany, Livingston, and Calcasieu Parishes. The chapters,
all run and operated by volunteers, provide a number of
important services, usually in locations that are under-served
by other humane organizations or governmental animal control
departments. Services include low-cost spay/neuter options,
animal rescue operations, and humane education and outreach
programs. For more information on the newly formed Jefferson
Davis Chapter, please contact Rosalyn at cajynmom526@yahoo.com.
For information about establishing a satellite chapter
of the Humane Society of Louisiana in your community,
please visit www.humanela.org or call 1-888-6-humane.
With more than 10,000 members, the Humane Society of Louisiana
is one of the state's largest animal protection organizations..
HSL protects and defends animals from cruelty, neglect,
and mistreatment. Through its cruelty investigations,
crime prevention, advocacy, and animal care programs,
HSL promotes nonviolence and compassion for all animals.
News Release:
for immediate use
Contact Person: Jeff Dorson 901-268-4432
April 20, 2009
INJURED SEAGULL GETS HELPING HAND
(Kenner) -- A ringed bill gull, a type of seagull,
was recently observed in the Joe Yenni canal in northwest
Kenner, injured and unable to fly. Concerned citizens
contacted the Humane Society of Louisiana, which in
turn contacted John Schmitt, otherwise known as Trapper
John, who visited the site and did an assessment of
the ailing water bird. After watching the bird, Trapper
John concluded that the bird had injured its wing, possibly
breaking it, by flying into a wire and could not survive
without some sort of intervention. After conferring
with Trapper John, The Humane Society of Louisiana requested
that John capture the bird and transfer it to a sanctuary
for further tests and treatment. Trapper John is licensed
and permitted by the state to capture and remove wildlife.
Even though injured, the bird moved very quickly on
land and in the canal. After several attempts, however,
Trapper John captured the bird unharmed, with the help
of an assistant.
The bird was kept overnight and was fed a supper of
fish before being transferred to Clearwater Sanctuary,
located in Bush, Louisiana, one of the few wildlife
rehabilitation centers in southwest Louisiana. The bird,
now named "Skipper," is being kept at the
sanctuary until a full assessment can be done.
To learn more about helping wildlife in your area,
please contact the Humane Society of Louisiana or the
Louisiana Wildlife Rehabilitators Association. To contact
the Humane Society of Louisiana, please call 1-888-6-humane.
To contact the Louisiana Wildlife Rehabilitators Association,
please visit their website at www.LAWRA.org or call
1-985-789-1061.
News Release:
for immediate use
Contact Person: Jeff Dorson 901-268-4432
January 22, 2009
HUMANE SOCIETY OF LOUISIANA UNCOVERS
CARCASSES
AT EUNICE ANIMAL SHELTER
(WARNING GRAPHIC PHOTOS: Photo
1; Photo
2; Photo
3; Photo
4 ; Photo
5; Photo
6 )
(Eunice)- After receiving a tip from a resident, the
Humane Society of Louisiana has collected evidence of
possible criminal activity that includes the skeletal
remains of animals, the body of a family pet, and the
decomposing bodies of cats in plastic bags directly
behind the local animal shelter in Eunice. As a result
of these findings, the Humane Society of Louisiana has
begun a thorough investigation into the operations of
the town of Eunice's animal holding facility and hopes
to increase the speed of its inspections of additional
shelters throughout the state.
Approximately four weeks ago, Mr. Nick Fish visited
the Eunice shelter, located by the town's water plant,
in hopes of finding his missing Pekingese. Since no
one was at the shelter at the time of his visit, Mr.
Fish walked the perimeter of the facility, only to stumble
upon the horrible sight of his missing dog, dead from
an apparent gunshot wound to the head. Surrounding Mr.
Fish's pet's dead body were the remains of several decomposing
cats. Mr. Fish witnessed one cat's lifeless body dangling
over a wire fence. He found other dead felines in plastic
bags.
On a subsequent visit to the shelter, Mr. Fish observed
seven cats crammed into one kennel. There were several
dogs in the other pens. None of the animals had food
or water, and all of the cages were covered with waste.
"It was deplorable," said Mr. Fish, who has
been interviewed by two humane society representatives
on multiple occasions.
Mr. Walter Scott Davy, who works part-time as the town's
only shelter employee, met Mr. Fish at the shelter approximately
three weeks ago and showed him his adoptable animals.
However, Mr. Davy disputes Mr. Fish's claim that the
shelter housed cats during his visit or at any time
in the past. Mr. Davy alleges that the city has not
housed a single cat at the Eunice shelter during his
entire six year tenure. Mr. Fish is agreeable to speaking
with members of the press and can be reached at 337-305-5575.
Mr. Davy, in speaking with humane society officials,
insists that Mr. Fish simply did not see any cats during
his visit. Mr. Davy also claims total ignorance of the
existence of any of the feline or canine carcasses found
behind the shelter despite the overwhelming stench of
decomposition reported by other shelter visitors. One
such visitor informed the humane society that the stench
was noticeable the minute she stepped out of her car.
Mr. Davy attributes the smell to the town's sewer treatment
plant, located directly next to the shelter, rather
than to the multitude of decomposing animals immediately
behind the small building.
"We believe that someone was responsible for the
deaths and placement of these animals by the town's
shelter. We have forwarded our information on the Eunice
Chief of Police for review." says Jeff Dorson,
Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana.
"We are also going to ask that the town of Eunice
review its entire methods of operations at this shelter.
Even though it has been in operation for many years,
the shelter does not have an operational policy, keep
any meaningful records, or follow the state animal adoption
code, which requires all animals to be sterilized within
30 days from the date of their adoption," adds
Dorson.
The Humane Society of Louisiana has embarked on an ambitious
program to inspect more than 50 shelters during the
next 12 months, with the help of trained volunteers
who have agreed to visit shelters in many rural parts
of Louisiana. To date, the group has inspected more
than half a dozen facilities, which has led to the closing
of the town of Kentwood's shelter back in October of
2008, after documenting gross violations of the state
cruelty statutes. The group is also working with the
Assumption Parish administration to improve the housing
operations at its facility. The group has also recenty
inspected the shelters in Jennings and Port Arthur and
found no obvious violations.
The Humane Society of Louisiana, is an independent non-profit
organization based in New Orleans, with a membership
base of more than 10,000 supporters. The group is a
licensed private investigation agency that helps in
the prosecution of suspected animal abusers and inspects
animal sheltering facilities throughout the state. For
more information, please visit their website at www.humanela.org
or call 1-888-6-humane.
November 12, 2008
Karen Chustz (225-747-6612) and Jeff Dorson, Executive
Director (901-268-4432)
It's
not Bedrock, but Meet the Rubble Family...Discarded
Canines Rescued From Pile of Debris
(Port Allen) --
The canine parents of four black Border collie/shepherd
mix puppies are off the street and resting comfortably,
thanks to the rescue efforts of Karen Chustz, who has
been rescuing and finding homes for animals for the
past 15 years. Ms. Chustz, a social worker by training,
is always on the look-out for stray animals and happened
to notice puppies crawling around a pile of rubble in
the 1100 block of Rosedale Road in Port Allen over the
weekend. The house was being demolished after a severe
beating, courtesy of Hurricane Gustav, and piles of
debris lay upon its foundation, leaving a large pile
of wood, tin, and discarded appliances, which became
home to this friendly, but homeless, canine family.
Karen was able to lure the mother, dad, and two puppies
to a nearby residence, where they could recuperate.
However, immediately after eating her meal, the mother
dog hopped the fence and went back to the rubble pile.
Karen eventually relocated her hovering around the debris,
when she noticed two more puppies emerging from the
pile of rubbish. Karen quickly realized that the mother
dog had returned to care for her other puppies. Karen
was able to rescue these puppies as well, so the entire
family has been kept intact. The canine family, named
after characters from the Flintstone cartoon show, because
of their apparent affinity for stones and rocks, are
thriving and good natured. All six members of the canine
Rubble family (including Barney (dad), Betty(mom), Bam
Bam (male pup), Pebbles, Wilma, and Hoppy (3 female
pups)) will soon be available for adoption, having recently
been seen by a veterinarian and declared as having good
dispositions.
To help pay for the eventual sterilizations of the
dogs, the Humane Society of Louisiana has established
a Flintstone Fund for the Rubble Puppies. Those wishing
to donate may send their donations to The Humane Society
of Louisiana, P.O. Box 740321, New Orleans, LA 70174.
All donations are tax-deductible. In your check memo,
please write "for Flintstone Rubble Puppies." The Humane
Society of Louisiana is one of the state's largest animal
protection and advocacy organizations, with headquarters
in New Orleans and its sheltering facility in Tylertown,
Mississippi. For more information, please call 1-888-6-humane
or visit their website at www.humanela.org.
October 21, 2008
New Orleans--The Humane Society of Louisiana recently
presented its Volunteer of the Year Award to Marla Chapotel,
a teacher within the Archdiocese of New Orleans school
system. "In addition to rescuing
many animals in distress on her own every year and paying
for their care, Marla has also helped us, with the help
of her family and friends, raise significant funds for
our cruelty prevention and investigation programs. This
year, in particular, Marla has also donated countless
hours helping our humane society meet our needs by volunteering
at our events and special gatherings," said Jeff
Dorson,Executive Director.
The Humane Society of Louisiana recently honored Marla
at its awards presentation ceremony and presented her
with the group's Volunteer of the Year Award, which
was also attended by Marla's mother, Julia Chapotel,
and Dr. James Riopelle, one of the group's past recipients
of its Humanitarian of the Year Award.
Established in 1988, the Humane Society of Louisiana
is one of the state's largest animal protection and
advocacy organizations with more than seven active chapters
and thousands of members. For
more information, please visit their website at www.humanela.org
or call 1-888-6-humane.
October
2008
Humane Society of Louisiana to Launch
Pet Food Drive for Hurricane-Stricken Areas and Will
Host First Annual Hurricane Pet Rally and Reception
Group also hopes to raise $30,000 in 30 days for Disaster
Relief
NEW ORLEANS--The Humane Society of Louisiana has partnered
with Kenneth's Studio for Hair, the popular salon with
outlets in Metairie and New Orleans, to coordinate the
collection and distribution of needed pet food and supplies
to areas hardest hit by Hurricanes Gustav and Ike "Residents
in our coastal parishes, such as Terrebonne, Plaquemines,
and LaFourche, desperately need animal supplies and
pet food. Residents are returning to their communities
to find that very few stores have opened and even fewer
have restocked their pet food inventories. Dog and cat
food are still rare commodities in some neighborhoods.
We have already overseen the transport of several hundreds
of pounds of dog food to the Terrebonne Parish Animal
Shelter, but more is still needed," says Jeff Dorson,
Executive Director.
Beginning Monday, September 15, at 10 am, Kenneth's
Hair Salons, located at 2100 St. Charles Ave, and
at 400 Veterans Blvd., in Metairie, donations
of dog and cat food, bleach, towels, toys, crates, and
blankets will be accepted and stored at both locations.
Monetary donations can also be dropped off in the form
of cash, checks, or money orders. Donations should be
made out to the Humane Society of Louisiana. The group
can also issue a tax deduction receipt upon request.
To provide additional relief efforts throughout the
state, where small humane societies often go without,
the Humane Society of Louisiana will also be kicking
off its "30 in 30" campaign. The group hopes
to raise $30,000 in 30 days or less by selling 8-inch
plush cat and dog toys. The life-like plush toys, named
Katrina, Gustav, and Ike, will sell for $25 each, or
$75 for the entire collection. The plush toys will be
sold online and at both Kenneth outlets.
"My husband and I and our entire staff at Kenneth's
care deeply about the welfare of animals. As soon as
we found out that there was a need to help our neighbors
and their companion animals in the costal region, we
immediately signed on to help with this exciting pet
food drive and campaign. In fact, to help deliver the
donated food, we plan to allow the Humane Society of
Louisiana the use of our company vehicle. We are all
looking forward to transporting tons of supplies and
food," says Mary Beth Smith, co-owner of Kenneth's
and the Metairie store manager.
The pet food drive will be completed at the end of
the normal business day on Saturday, September 20th.
For more information, please visit www.humanela.org
or call 1-888-6-humane. Kenneth's Studio for Hair will
also host the humane society's first annual Hurricane
Pet Rally and Reception at their Metairie location,
400 Veterans Blvd, on Saturday, September 20th, from
7-8:30 pm. Wine and light refreshments will be served.
A minimum $25.00 donation is requested. Proceeds will
also support The Three Wishes Foundation, a Texas-based
humane organization that coordinates transport services
for homeless animals and provides veterinary care for
disabled animals.
The Humane Society of Louisiana is a non-profit organization
that supports a variety of humane programs and services
throughout the state.
August 2008
VIOLATIONS RAMPANT AT NAPOLEONVILLE
FACILITY HUMANE SOCIETY OF LOUISIANA ASKS
FOR IMMEDIATE CHANGES
New Orleans - After sending in four sets of inspectors
over the course of the past six weeks, the Humane Society
of Louisiana is releasing its findings, which has documented
widespread animal abuse at the Napoleonville shelter,
located next to the parish detention center. "We
have been dealing with many of these same issues off
and on for the past ten years," says Jeff Dorson,
Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana.
"This time, however, we are not moving on until
all of these issues have been resolved to our satisfaction,"
adds Dorson.
"During our initial inspection carried out ten
years ago, we found dead and dying puppies lying in
the grass next to the kennels. The kennels and pens
were rarely cleaned, and the animals were terribly neglected.
Reluctantly, the administration rebuilt the kennel area
about eight years ago. However, the design was faulty:
the kennels were built too small, the dogs lack protection
from the elements, and no housing areas were provided
for impounded cats. Plus, record keeping has always
been poor or non-existent, making it difficult for us
to review their operations," Dorson says.
"However, all that is now going to change. The
public, which has become increasingly interested in
the operations of all public animal shelters due to
problems that have surfaced during the past year in
Lafayette, Jefferson, Bossier City, and most recently,
Tangipahoa, will not tolerate substandard care for impounded
animals. In previous years, we have been given vague
answers and empty promises from Assumption Parish officials.
This time, however, the laws will be enforced, the animals
will be adequately housed, and proper procedures will
be followed, Otherwise, the parish will have to suspend
its operation and deal with the punishment meted out
by the public," says Dorson.
The Humane Society of Louisiana, based out of New Orleans,
formed four teams of shelter investigators, many of
whom have several years of sheltering experience. Their
task was to gain access to the facility and keep journals
and records of their experience. The investigators simply
posed as members of the public. Gaining access to the
shelter proved to be one of the most difficult jobs
to accomplish. Since there are no written shelter guidelines
or posted hours of operations, many of the shelter investigators
were often turned away at the gate; or, they were told
to come back at different times, or were told to call
back and ask for someone else. One team gave up the
task after reporting to the shelter at different times
on different days, only to be turned away every time.
Phone calls were rarely returned. Other team members,
once finally in, were treated with open hostility by
detention staff members, who apparently resented their
dual jobs of deputy prison wardens and kennel workers.
This release contains journal entries of some of the
reports made by these shelter inspectors.
The inspectors, once they gained access, were often
shocked at what they observed. Besides being poorly
treated by the guards, who shadowed them at every turn
and often rushed them through the visit, the inspectors
were rarely given a proper chance to adopt out an animal.
However, the treatment of the public by the parish employees
is overshadowed by the gross mistreatment of the animals
sheltered at this facility. Cats, in particular, once
caught in small traps and transported to this facility,
are exposed to terrible and unlawful treatment.
Since the parish does not provide any kennels or pens
for cats, the cats remain in their small wire trap-boxes
for several days. Often several adult cats and kittens
are crammed into one trap that is only designed to house
a single cat for several hours. The practice of cramming
cats into one tiny cage has been a common practice at
this facility for several years. Two years ago, the
group received a report from an Assumption Parish resident
who reported seeing cats and kittens in the bottom of
a small trap, which had been titled on one end, forcing
all the cats to remain in a pile, at the end of the
trap.
The humane organization quickly addressed these concerns
in a letter dated May 7, 2007 and sent to Marty Triche,
Parish President. "In the letter, we identified
the citizen's concern, gave contact information of shelter
experts who could help, and even delivered three large
kennels, in which the cats could be properly housed.
The donation of the kennels was declined, the experts
were never notified, I was denied entrance to the shelter,
and, much to our chagrin, the practice of housing cats
in this inhumane way was never discontinued. By not
accepting this generous donation of kennels or exploring
other options for housing cats in a humane manner, this
administration has clearly betrayed the trust extended
to them by the unsuspecting public," Dorson says.
The humane society inspectors found that the dogs were
sometimes kept in overcrowded conditions, with three
to four dogs to a cage that could only hold one to two
comfortably. The cats were still crammed into small
wire trap-cages and placed on a shelf in a three-sided
shed. "The cats, according to Sgt. Eddie Landry,
who is the one paid parish employee in charge of the
shelter, informed me on Wednesday, August 20th, that
they wait several days for the cats to be caught and
accumulate, before they are taken to the Ark Veterinary
Clinic in Donaldsonville, where they are euthanized.
The two trustee-inmates confirmed this practice in separate
conversations," adds Dorson.
"On the day of my visit, I did not observe any
cats. However, three other inspectors did observe them
and were horrified by the conditions. According to their
reports, several cats and kittens were housed in one
trap. No litter pans were provided. No food or water
bowls were present. Excrement and urine simply collect
under the bottom of the wire trap until it is hosed
off. The cats are hosed off while still in their traps.
A Chihuahua was also visible in one of the cat cages
on the day of one of our inspections," Dorson confides
And in a shocking statement to answer the question
why food or water bowls were not present in any of the
kennels or cat cages, a staff member replied, "we
remove all the bowls the day before they are all scheduled
to be killed." This practice could very well constitute
a separate violation of the state cruelty laws.
"I spoke with Sheriff Waguespack about this facility
last week," says Dorson. "The sheriff is aware
of housing cats in this manner, but assumed that the
cats were immediately taken to the vets as soon as they
were caught. We believe that Sgt. Landry gave the truer
version of the policies, since it is highly unlikely
that workers would make repeated trips to the veterinarian
clinic, which is 40 minutes round trip from the shelter,
in order to euthanize every cat as soon as it is caught.
It is far more likely to assume that cats and kittens
endure many days of this harsh treatment until sufficient
cats have been caught, to make the trip economically
feasible," says Dorson. The housing of cats in
this manner for several days is considered a violation
of the animal cruelty statues, under LA. R.S. 14. 102.1.
Besides violating this statue, the parish is also violating
the state-wide animal sheltering adoption law, LA. R.S.
3:2471, which requires that all animals adopted from
public or private shelters be sterilized within 30 days
from the date of adoption. During the course of its
six week investigation, the Humane Society of Louisiana
coordinated the adoption of three puppies and one cat.
One of the puppies died immediately after its release,
and the cat was found to have a recent, untreated cigarette
burn on her face.
The Humane Society of Louisiana is preparing a report
of their findings and recommendations that will be presented
within the next several days to members of the Assumption
Parish Police Jury. Besides their findings, the group
will also forward their short-term and long-term recommendations.
Enumerating their short-term recommendations, the group
will ask that the jury immediately suspend the trapping
and housing of cats until proper housing accommodations,
approved by the humane society, are arranged. The group
will also recommend that benchmarks be approved and
reached within a certain time-frame. The humane organization
further recommends that:
1. All animals be fed and watered each day during confinement.
2. No more than one large adult dog, two medium-sized
dogs, or three small dogs be housed in any single kennel.
3. A Standard Shelter Operations Procedure Manual shall
be written and approved by the police jury and implemented
within the next 30 days. Copies of prepared policies
will be forwarded to each juror.
4. An open access policy shall be instituted at once
and a sign with the hours of operation be posted within
the next 10 days.
5. Daily records shall be kept and maintained on each
and every animal housed. The information must include:
location of animal found, breed, size, temperament,
and date of release, adoption, or euthanasia.
6. An adoption contract that conforms to the state
law must be in place, on file, and in use within the
next 10 days.
7. A schedule of adoption fees, impound fines, and
reclamation charges shall be created and approved by
the police jury within the next 30 days.
7. A shelter oversight committee shall be formed within
the next 30 days with representatives appointed from
the community, the administration, the Humane Society
of Louisiana and interested rescue groups. The committee
will have unfettered access to records, documents, and
the shelter during the posted hours of operation. The
committee will meet regularly during the next two years,
in order to monitor the shelter operations and make
further recommendations to the police jury on an as-needed
basis.
The group also recommends that the following long-term
goals be met:
The sheltering operations shall be moved to a new facility
and placed under the direction of a new department.
Housing stray animals at a detention center, whose employees
lack proper training and are openly hostile to the public
are at cross purposes with ensuring the reuniting, adoption,
and humane treatment of animals.
The Humane Society of Louisiana will also be accepting
comments from the public, including additional complaints,
during the next 30 days. The comments will also be forwarded
to Mr. Al Shapiro, of the Baton Rouge law firm of Shapiro
and Shapiro, who will be overseeing any litigation the
group wishes to pursue. The group can be reached by
calling 1-888-6-humane or by writing to them at P.O.
Box 740321, New Orleans, LA 70714 or by emailing them
at info@humanela.org. All comments will be kept confidential.
WHAT: News Conference in parking lot of Assumption
Parish Detention Center
Where: 233 Hwy 1008, Napoleonville, LA 70390
When: Monday, August 25, 2: 00 pm
March 2008
Wildlife Gets Helping Hand
at Tickfaw State Park
State Officials Recognized for Their Work in Implementing
New Policies and Procedures
New Orleans -
Officials from the New Orleans based humane organization,
The Humane Society of Louisiana, recently visited Tickfaw
State Park, located in Springfield, Louisiana, to present
the group's coveted Golden Heart Awards to Dr. Stuart
Johnson, Assistant Secretary of the Office of Louisiana
State Parks, and Mary Ginn, Director of Human Resources
with the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources.
Dr. Johnson and Ms. Ginn were part of an ad hoc committee
which recently rewrote the policies that govern the
treatment and handling of wildlife and domestic animals
throughout the Louisiana park system. The new policies
ensure that all injured wildlife be captured and treated
humanely and turned over to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator
and/or released in the wild. Domesticated animals, such
as dogs and cats, will be transported to the nearest
animal control agency and/or humane organization.
The Tickfaw State Park currently turns over injured
wildlife to Ms. Leslie Lattimore, founder and director
of Wings of Hope Wildlife Sanctuary. Once placed in
this rehabilitation center, a wide range of species
receives life saving attention and medical care. To
train more volunteers in proper wildlife care and rehabilitation,
Ms. Lattimore will be offering training sessions at
Tickfaw State Park, which will be offered to state park
employees and the public, in the near future. Photos
attached in this release include a rehabilitated Red
Tailed Hawk and a Bald Eagle, which were recently released
into the wild.
Ms. Lattimore has rehabilitated thousands of animals
and birds since her incorporation as a charitable organization
over a dozen years ago. Tickfaw State Park will soon
be donating space in the foyer of their nature center
to showcase the work of Wings of Hope.
Photos of rehabilitated animals will be on display,
along with educational materials.
"Dr. Johnson and Ms. Ginn recognize the importance
of providing care for all wildlife on state parks, and
they encouraged the development of new policies that
reflect those ideals. These state officials will also
be encouraging more state park employees to receive
basic trai ning
on wildlife rehabilitation procedures, and they hope
to oversee the purchasing of basic supplies and equipment
that will help stabilize injured or diseased animals
in the near future," says Jeff Dorson, Executive
Director of the Humane Society. "Because of the
support that Dr. Johnson and Ms. Ginn have given to
these programs, we believe that thousands of animals
will benefit in the long run. For this reason, we have
presented these two talented and thoughtful state workers
our Golden Heart Awards," adds Dorson.
For more information on the Wings of Hope, please visit
their website at www.wingsofhoperehab.org.
November
27, 2007
CIRCUS ELEPHANTS AT CENTER OF CONTROVERSY
News Release: for immediate use November
27, 2007
The Humane Society of Louisiana (HSL) this month provided
critical eye witness testimony in the case of three
Asian elephants who appeared with the Kingford Circus
in New Orleans Nov. 16-17. The three elephants, known
as Queenie (AKA "Boo), Jewel, and Tina (AKA "Girlfriend)
are at the center of a growing controversy involving
animal protection groups, federal regulatory agencies,
and the custodians of the elephants. 
HSL inspected the elephants, who were held at the old
Winn Dixie parking lot in downtown New Orleans, in response
to a request by In Defense of Animals (IDA), an international
animal advocacy organization. IDA has been investigating
the plight of Queenie, Tina and Jewel and advocating
for federal confiscation of the elephants and their
placement in a sanctuary.
HSL's inspection revealed three downtrodden-looking
elephants, at least one of whom was notably underweight,
chained under grim conditions at this run down circus.
The operators of the Kingford Circus are the target
of several federal investigations. They have a long
history of violating the federal Animal Welfare Act
(AWA), as documented by numerous inspection reports
by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) field agents
and veterinarians. The Animal Welfare Act is a set of
federal regulations first enacted by Congress in 1966
that set guidelines for the care and housing of some
animals in research laboratories, roadside zoos, and
circuses, among other animal-related enterprises. 
The Kingford Circus is one of several circus identities
used by the Davenport family of Texas. (Other names
include Barnes Circus, LE Barnes and Bailey Circus,
and the All Star Circus of China). In several federal
court proceedings that span the past decade, various
Davenport family members have been fined several hundred
thousands of dollars in penalties for violating the
AWA. In 1998, the circus proprietor, John Davenport,
had had his federal license to exhibit animals revoked
due to animal mistreatment and neglect. However, the
circus continues to operate through the licenses of
other family members.
Problems pertaining to the proper care of these elephants
continue unabated. In March, the USDA ordered Tina and
Jewel, both in their early 40's, off the road due to
severe weight loss and concerns about possible tuberculosis
infection. Reports filed by several different USDA agents
and veterinarians show that Jewel has often performed
while underweight. During some shows and performances,
her hip and back bones have been visible and her eye
sockets have appeared to be sunken, which reveal very
little flesh or muscle tissue on her face or forehead.
In addition to USDA scrutiny, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service is officially investigating reports that the
Davenports purchased Tina and Jewel, both highly endangered
Asian elephants, in violation of the federal Endangered
Species Act.
Despite the legal clouds that continue to swirl around
the elephants, the USDA recently lifted its "stay"
order and authorized the Davenports to put both elephants
back on the road.
Among the egregious AWA violations committed repeatedly
by the Davenports are failure to provide suitable housing,
adequate veterinary care, humane handling and safe transportation
for the elephants. In unusually graphic language, the
USDA has documented the "abuse" of the third
elephant, Queenie with a bullhook (steel rod with sharply
pointed end used to stab, hook and hit elephants and
force them to comply with commands.)
The Humane Society of Louisiana has forwarded its report,
photos, and copies of video footage to the USDA and
has asked that USDA agents thoroughly re-inspect the
Kingsford Circus and file federal charges against the
owners and employees based on the history of Animal
Welfare Act violations. The Humane Society also plans
to notify select members of Congress to ensure that
federal laws to protect animals and endangered species
are vigorously enforced.
Mr. Dorson is available for interviews by calling 901-268-4432
and can provide video tape of these elephants when they
recently were in New Orleans. Mr. Dorson can also provide
copies of USDA inspection reports.
October 1,
2007
REWARD OFFERED FOR CAT IN LEGHOLD
TRAP
News Release: for October 2, 2007 Contact Persons:
Leeann Metherne, Director of Jefferson Animal Control,
736-6118 Jeff Dorson, Director of the Humane Society
of Louisiana, 901-268-4432
(Metairie) - Walking out on to her patio late last
week, Beverly Bourgeois was taken aback by what she
saw. There, in the middle of her back yard, she saw
a small brown cat with a steel leg hold trap clamped
down on her right rear leg. Startled by Mrs. Bourgeois
walking towards her, the cat hobbled away, with the
leg hold trap still clamped to her leg. Mrs. Bourgeois
immediately contacted the Jefferson Animal Control Department,
which dispatched an animal control officer to the scene.
The officer canvassed the area and was able to locate
and catch the injured cat. The officer was able to disable
the trap and placed the frightened cat into a carrier.
The cat was then transported to the East Bank Animal
Shelter, where she was examined and treated by a shelter
veterinarian.
"We are very fortunate to have gotten to this
cat when we did," said Leann Metherne, newly appointed
director of the Jefferson Animal Control Department.
"It is amazing that the trap didn't inflict more
damage. Usually, animals caught in leg hold traps have
their toes, paws, and/or legs completely mangled. If
the animals survive the initial shock of being caught
and injured, they often suffer from effects of dehydration,
trauma, and/or blood loss. Many animals that survive
being caught in a trap have their paws or limbs amputated
as a result of infection. We suspect that the cat's
leg was so small that the trap did not close all the
way on it. However, we are extremely upset that someone
deliberately set this trip within our city limits to
ensnare an unsuspecting animal. it is illegal to use
these dangerous traps outside of trapping season and
within the incorporated areas of Jefferson Parish, where
the majority of animals are domesticated cats and dogs,"
added Metherne.
The Humane Society of Louisiana, a non-profit organization
that investigates cruelty to animal complaints, has
investigated similar cases of the illegal use of leg
hold traps during the last several years. To help identify
the suspect who set this trap, the Humane Society has
offered a $500.00 reward for information that leads
to the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
Mr. Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane
Society of Louisiana, and Ms. Metherne, Director of
the Jefferson Animal Control Department, will hold a
joint press conference on Tuesday, October 2, to discuss
the details of this case. The cat that survived this
attack and the trap that was found attached to the cat's
leg will be shown to media representatives during this
conference. The as-yet-to-be named cat will be available
for adoption thorough the Jefferson Animal Control Department.
The adoption fee is $67.00, which will include the cost
of her sterilization, vaccination, deworming, and testing
for feline diseases.
What: Press Conference on Confiscation of Steel Leg
Hold Trap in Jefferson Parish.
When: noon, Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Where: Jefferson Parish Animal Control, Eastbank shelter,
#1 Humane Way, Harahan
STARVING HORSES
IN ACADIA
News Release: For Immediate Use October 2, 2007
Contact persons: Lori Wilson, Director of Rescue Ranch
(504) 818-6120 Jeff Dorson, Director of Humane Society
of Louisiana
Abused and Neglected Horses rescued from Germania
Plantation
( Belle Chasse, La. )-- Three malnourished ponies
were recently removed from the Germania Plantation,
located in Donaldsonville, La. The plantation has fallen
into disrepair over the last several years and the title
to the property has changed hands several times. At
one time, the plantation was properly maintained and
as a result, supported a herd of horses, which were
first allowed to roam the plantation some sixty-five
years ago. Over the years, though, the number of horses
dwindled, and the plantation owners could not properly
care for the remaining horses. Some of the horses began
showing signs of neglect and  abuse,
and last week agents from the Department of Agriculture,
Livestock Brand Commission, visited the site and arranged
for the surrender of four horses and three feral ponies
by the plantation management. The horses were immediately
transferred to new owners, and the three feral ponies
were transferred to Rescue Ranch, the only equine sanctuary
rehabilitation center in Southeast Louisiana.
Rescue Ranch was founded by Lori Wilson, an equine
trainer, counselor, and cruelty investigator. The three
ponies, a buckskin and two sorrels, are finally receiving
adequate health care, becoming socialized, and recovering
from their difficult ordeal. One the horses, "Houdini,"
a red stallion, had been confined to a small, windowless
stall for the past three years. The other two horses,
"Little One," a buckskin, and "Little
Lady," a sorrel mare, were not fed regularly and
are grossly underweight. Two of the horses are stallions
and need to be castrated and all three horses need vaccinations.
To help Rescue Ranch secure funds and resources, the
Humane Society of Louisiana is appealing to its constituents
and supporters around Louisiana and the nation to send
in donations and supplies to care for these deserving
victims of neglect. Rescue Ranch is a non-profit equine
rehabilitation center and all donations are tax deductible.
"Lori has devoted the last twenty years of her
life to helping neglected horses, and we owe it to her
to help her efforts," says Jeff Dorson, Director
of the Humane Society of Louisiana.
Checks or money orders may be sent to: Rescue Ranch,
P.O. Box 7112, Belle Chasse, La 70037. Donations are
also accepted on the Rescue Ranch website through PayPal.
Rescue Ranch also has an account at Double M Feed Store,
located on Holmes Blvd., in Gretna. Donations may be
directly applied to their account as well.
Media representatives are invited to contact Lori
to view the ponies and to interview Lori. She can be
reached at Lori@rescueranch.net, or by calling 504-393-8485.
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