OPINION | RACHEL BRIX
Amping up Advocacy: How + R and Animal Welfare Go Hand in Paw … and Hoof
By Rachel Brix, CPDT-KA
It took more than four years, but Puppy Doe finally got justice on March 26. That was the day when the human who brutally tortured the pit bull puppy received 8-10 years( out of a possible 60) in prison after being convicted on all 12 felony counts of animal abuse. As positive reinforcement dog trainers, these types of issues and cases such as Puppy Doe’ s strike us at our core. We consider ourselves animal lovers, and many of us are involved in various animal advocacy issues that align with our belief that dogs and perhaps even other companion animals should be treated better. So, it follows that we would extend, or at least consider, that all animals deserve to be treated better.
The emaciated pit bull terrier mix was discovered by a pair of friends in a street in Quincy, Massachusetts back on August 31, 2014. She was unable to walk, and they thought she’ d maybe been hit by a car. Upon examination, however, veterinarians determined she was the victim of severe, prolonged and even medieval-type abuse. Considering the extent of her injuries and suffering, she was euthanized. Many supporters, including Animal Rescue League President Mary Nee, see this case as setting a new precedent for animal abuse cases, asserting that‘‘ Puppy Doe’ s short and tragic life was the impetus for stronger laws and protecting all animals.
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