THOMASVILLE, Ga-- Thomas County sees more animal cruelty than most would believe. Last year alone, Thomas County Animal Control Officers responded to 3,999 complaints, 1300 of which resulted in cruelty investigations.
“These abused animals have little hope as they live out their days without the compassion they deserve. Some are found, rescued, and given the chance to experience how great life with humans can be; others aren’t so lucky. To grow as a community, we must fight for these abused animals’ rights and punish heartless owners,” commented Pat Smith, Animal Control Director for Thomas County.
In order to begin addressing this epidemic in our community, an Animal Cruelty Community Forum and Workshop has been scheduled for this Thursday, January 10th at 6:30 p.m. It will be held in the conference room of the Emergency Services Center on 1202 Remington Avenue.
Workshop planners strongly encourage community members concerned with animal cruelty and neglect to attend. Non-profit agencies interested in partnering in this mission are also welcome. Smith, who is spearheading this workshop, will begin by giving an informative presentation to attendees on the state of animal cruelty and neglect in Thomas County. She hopes this forum will open up dialogue about this community issue, and serve as an opportunity for concerned citizens to brainstorm ways to prevent it and increase awareness.
“It is our job to be the voice for creatures who cannot speak for themselves. As a community we need to make it a priority to come together and ensure the safety of our four-legged citizens,” commented Pat Smith.
Attendees will also learn how to recognize this cruelty and what they can do to stop it.
Some common signs of animal abuse:
-Dogs left outside without food, water, or shelter
-Sick or injured pet that has not been treated
-Unsanitary living conditions
-Hoarding numerous animals
-Animals left alone in a car during extreme weather
-Dogs left in the bed of a pickup truck during the heat of summer without shade (especially in parking lots)
To report suspected animal cruelty, please call (229) 228-0613.
