I am your animal control officer. I am not the dreaded “dog catcher” or the “murderer” you call me.
I am not the one who allows your pet to roam the streets to be hit by passing cars.
I am the one who must look into those sick, pain-glazed eyes, try to remove the animal without causing it further pain and then humanely put it to sleep to end its suffering.
I am not the one who allows your pets to breed, then dumps the unwanted puppies and kittens on roadsides and in shelters.
I am not the one who abandons unwanted animals on farm roads, telling myself some friendly farmer will surely take them in and give them a good home.
But I am the one who must pick up the frightened animal that waits in vain for its beloved master, wondering why it has been abandoned.
I am the one who must help that friendly farmer trap, tranquillise or kill that animal because it has begun to hunt in packs with other abandoned, hungry animals, killing livestock, fowl and game.
I am not the one who keeps a pet confined in an area too small, without food, water, shelter or exercise.
But I am the one who must deal with the irresponsible owner who does.
So, remember, the next time your pet is picked up, or you are cited for neglecting or abusing it, remember, I am only trying to get you to fulfil your responsibility to your pet, your neighbour and yourself.
Do not scorn me.
Respect me, for I am the product of your responsibility.
I love animals and I care.
Fitting…..I think we forget the job you all do and what you have to put up with from a bunch of people who can’t even treat animals with care and respect. I often feel that the way people treat animals gives you insight into how they deal with people…..does that make sense?
yes it makes sense