Pet violence in Ja society
published: Thursday | April 7, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir:

RECENTLY THERE was an article in your paper by Hartley Neita making light of the care people are providing for their dogs. After reading Cindi Scholefield's reply on Tuesday, April 5, I would like to introduce another perspective to the topic. Indept studies have shown that a lot of violent human behaviour has been linked to initial displays of animal cruelty. In fact in North America, veterinarians have to report any sign of animal cruelty to the humane society and any such reports are treated seriously.

I had the opportunity to practise veterinary medicine in Jamaica for one year and was angered by the number of assaults on the dogs seen: many were treated for machete wounds, one for a gunshot wound and others for starvation and neglect, and these were just the cases that were presented. So we look at the wider question of the violence, brutality and wanton disrespect of human life in the society, and is there any surprise?

It may seem humorous that people are having their pets cared for, but it is not funny when people are at the other extreme and being cruel. Given the level of violence and cruelty to human beings in society today, it is our duty to treat the lives of all creatures great and small with respect.

I am, etc.,

LAUREL WILLIAMS, DVM

lawcammock@yahoo.com

Canada

Via Go-Jamaica