Letter to the Editor

To the Editor:

Recently, the Delta Humane Society was contacted by an individual who was working in Rayville. He and his coworkers were concerned because there was a horse tied in their view that for days was never seen to be cared for. The horse also appeared injured.

This individual had called both the police department and the sheriff and was told there was nothing they could do. Finally, the Delhi Humane Society was called and sent out a representative, who, with the permission of the landowner, went on the property and found a seriously injured and underweight horse with no access to food, water or even shade in the extreme heat. After speaking with neighbors, it was found that the horse had been hit by a car at least a week prior to that and was injured so badly, he probably should have been put to sleep at the scene.

Instead, according to neighbors, his owner tied him out at the end of the street and left. The owner allegedly never came back to provide food, water or proper veterinary care as the law requires.

The Delta Humane Society was able to get law enforcement involved that evening and to provide food and water to the horse. The next morning the horse was examined by a veterinarian and humanely euthanized. The owner has been charged by Rayville Police with animal cruelty.

My point is that when people get involved and insist on action, responsible public officials respond. We can all make a difference. When law enforcement, like Chief Willie Robinson, chooses to progressively enforce the animal welfare laws, it makes our community a safer, more compassionate place to live, not for only animals but, for people too.

Casey Lattimer
Director
Delta Humane Society