YOUR ANIMAL RESOURCE OFFICER
You mentioned cruelty investigations , what does that entail ?
BILLY - Cause for a cruelty investigation usually stems from the lack of one or more of the following : food , water , appropriate shelter , or necessary veterinary care . It should be noted that food does not need to be present at all times , but clean potable water must always be available whether said animal is indoors or outdoors . A canine cannot be left outside longer than 30 minutes when the temperature is either below 32 degrees or above 90 degrees , regardless of proper shelter being available . These investigations are typically done in coordination with the Humane Society Officers . illcreek
MILLCREEK TOWNSHIP NEWS
When would you have to get involved ?
BILLY - Some citizens may want to see immediate results . In reality , the process includes several steps if the animal ’ s life is not in immediate danger . Educating the accused party is key in most cases . For many investigations , it will take multiple attempts to contact the accused . Once contact is made , we will seek an amicable solution that is in the best interest of the animal . A verbal or written warning may be issued and follow-up visits for compliance might be conducted . If all efforts have been exhausted , citations will then be issued . An Animal Resource Officer can only seize an animal under exigent circumstances .
How would you go about securing a loose dog or cat ?
BILLY - My method when capturing any feline or canine is to do so in the most compassionate manner possible . I will approach the animal using a docile , nonaggressive posture and tone of voice , and offer it high-quality treats to gain the animal ’ s trust . I will spend as much time as possible talking to the animal and giving it treats . Once trust is gained , I would then secure said animal safely in an appropriately sized crate or carrier and transport it to the Humane Society .
Feral felines will not be pursued for capture unless they pose a significant safety risk to the public or show signs of disease or aggression . Likewise , I will not pursue felines that have their ears tipped , indicating they have been fixed through a Trap , Neuter , Release ( TNR ) program .
How does the legal system work in Millcreek Township animal ordinances and PA Dog Laws ?
BILLY - Animal Resource Officers write their own citations under Township Ordinances and Pennsylvania Dog law . The Officer is then the prosecutor at the Magistrate level and he or she must prove to the Commonwealth beyond a reasonable doubt that the offender is guilty of the charges . If the defendant appeals the Magistrate ruling , the Officer will attend a Summary Appeal Hearing with an Assistant District Attorney as the lead prosecutor .
WE CHOOSE THIS LINE OF WORK FOR A LOVE OF ANIMALS AND THE COMMUNITY WE SERVE .
MILLCREEK ❘ SUMMER 2024 23