Neglected Animals In Need of Homes

Neglected Animals In Need of Homes

Date of Record: February 10, 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 10, 2006
 
For more information contact:
Laurie Ringquist, Director, Animal Care and Control, City of Bloomington, 349.3870
Maria K. Heslin, Communications Director, City of Bloomington, 349.3596

Bloomington, IN - Laurie Ringquist, Director of the City of Bloomington Animal Care and Control Department, announced today the City is seeking homes for animals impounded for neglect in Monroe County.

"After all these animals have been through, we want to make sure they go to homes where they will be loved and cared for the rest of their lives," Ringquist said.

On January 24, 2006, Monroe County Animal Management officers responded to a call regarding a stray dog. Upon arrival they were informed of the guardian's address and were made aware of additional neglected animals on the property. When the officers arrived, there were chickens, rabbits and another dog that had no food or water.

An abandonment notice was left and a citation for animal care was issued. On January 26, the officer returned and found that there was still no food or water and that six of the rabbits had died in their cages. A warrant was obtained and the animals were seized and brought to the City of Bloomington Animal Shelter. The seized animals included 22 hens and roosters, 11 rabbits and a dog.

The animals were malnourished and the poultry showed signs of fighting over food, with many missing feathers. There were also signs that rabbits had been fed to the dogs.

"Abuse of any kind is a tragedy," said Sarah Hayes, Executive Director of the Monroe County Humane Association (MCHA). "I wish we could say these types of things do not happen in our community, but it is a sad reality. The MCHA and City of Bloomington must remain diligent in our work to protect the animals by educating the public about proper care and humane treatment, and by strengthening and upholding animal ordinances and laws."

The City is seeking good homes for these animals, particularly the 11 rabbits. Rabbits are spayed and neutered prior to adoption and their regular adoption fee is $45. However, the MCHA has agreed to subsidize the cost of spaying and neutering the rabbits through the Olivia Abuse Fund, thereby lowering the adoption fee to $20.

The rabbits are available for adoption and can be visited at the Animal Shelter, 3410 S. Walnut. Individuals interested in adopting a pet rabbit are encouraged to research rabbits' special needs before adopting. The shelter provides handouts on proper housing, nutrition, handling and exercise and staff is available to answer questions.

Donations to the Olivia Abuse Fund can be made by donating online at [www.monroehumane.org|http://www.monroehumane.org/] or by mailing donations MCHA, P.O. Box 1334, Bloomington, IN 47402.

# # #