County blunders while rescued pets die at taxpayers' expense

Commentary from

Emily Lumpkin

Stray, abandoned and owner-surrendered pets that are picked up in Richland County are held at the county-leased portion of the Critter Cabin facility on Two Notch Road for several days prior to being transferred for euthanasia.

Until recently, area rescue groups have been allowed to remove pets from this facility for adoption through their individual organizations, resulting in thousands of saved pets over time. That is, until the numerous complaints recently aired against the county for the appalling unsanitary and inhumane conditions and treatment of homeless pets, including, but not limited to: animals overcrowded in cages deep in raw sewage, maggots in animal's eyes, dead animals caged with live ones. Former employees report dogs mauled to death, kittens dead in cages, dogs tied up and left outside, all with no staff intervention or oversight by the county.

In apparent retaliation for these complaints, the county has now closed its door to the majority of outside rescue groups who would otherwise save many of these helpless animals. This action has dictated that more pets are being marked and transferred for euthanasia, further leaving no one to monitor the horrific conditions or council's responsibility.

As a taxpayer and animal lover, you have a voice. Show your support! Please sign the petition on our website, www.PetsWithoutHope.com and forward it to at least ten of your friends to help us:

+ Insist that the county immediately re-open the county-leased portion of the Critter Cabin facility to the various area rescue groups who can resume saving as many homeless pets as possible.

+ Insist that County Council immediately resolve a more suitable alternative holding facility for these homeless pets.

The animals have no voice. We are their only voice.