This letter is in response to the letter to the editor printed Saturday, Aug. 11, in the West Central Tribune, written by Peggy Barrera of Bolingbrook, Ill.
We at the Humane Society of Kandiyohi County do all we can to help the animals, not only in Kandiyohi County but also in the surrounding area. Our shelter is staffed during the day and the person answering the phone handles all calls as best as possible. We did not receive a call on Aug. 7 as stated in the letter. We did receive a complaint on Thursday, Aug. 9, and the young staff member on duty did what she was supposed to by telling the caller they need to call law enforcement. Minnesota State Statute 343.12, in brief, states that it is the duty of any sheriff, deputy or police officer to investigate any alleged violation of the law regarding cruelty to animals.
Here at the shelter we can screen the calls to determine if there is abuse or neglect. We do not have an animal investigator employed by our shelter. We advise the caller to contact local law enforcement and, if necessary, Family Services, depending on if there are children involved. If there is no response, we have contacted law enforcement to request that an officer respond to the situation. By law we are not allowed to remove an animal. We are very fortunate that we have a good working relationship with the local police and sheriff departments as well as Family Services.
The Humane Society asks all citizens to be good Samaritans and to respond when they see people or animals in need. If you see an animal in need, do what you can to help it until law enforcement arrives. When calling in a complaint, a physical address or 911 address is needed. We also ask that you be a responsible animal owner: Spay and neuter your pet, provide food, water and shelter, spend time with your pet and make sure it gets in for yearly veterinarian exams.
Bobbie Bauman
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Tari Evenson
Humane Society of Kandiyohi County
Willmar
