Letter to the Editor/ Who, it may concern
It’s heartbreaking to see the abuse, neglected and over population of animals in Cushing and the surrounding counties. The Cimmaron Valley Humane Society in Cushing, consist mainly of H.B. and Lenora Webb, Rebecca Stowers and a few volunteeres. There is no facility where the animals are kept like in other towns and cities throughout Oklahoma. These animals are kept at the homes of the Webbs, Rebecca and a few volunteers that provide foster care and help with the animals.
We have an Animal Control “Pound” in Cushing where stray animals are kept after they are picked up from the streets, BUT those animals are only kept for 72 hours before they are put to DEATH if the owners don’t come in to claim them.
There are many issues surrounding this subject. Public awareness and education are needed, so citizens know there is a place to call and check for your lost pet, a place to adopt pets and help for pets in need.
Here are few ideas / challenges to the citizens of Cushing and the surrounding counties.
Editor: Do an in depth story on the Humane Society, and Animal Control. Awareness & Education!
Pet owners: Be responsible! Spay or neuter your pet, keep their shots up to date, provide them a fenced area, food, water and adequate shelter from the weather. If you can’t do this then DON’T HAVE A PET!
City Council, Manager, and Mayor: Form a committee with the surrounding County Commissioners and Representatives of the Indian Nations. See what can be done to find and help fund a facility for the Humane Society. A facility is desperately needed to house the dozens of animals they all ready have. Change the “pound” policy of only holding a stray for 72 hours, to 7 – 14 days to allow for extenuating circumstances. Or better yet, consider a NO- KILL policy.
Non Pet Owners, Youth Organizations, and Local Business: Donations and volunteers are needed. Food, bedding, cages, and money to help with; spay, neutering, vaccinations and the day to day up keep of the dozens of dogs and cats that are dumped, abused, and homeless in our city.
I believe that we have a moral obligation to these animals, they are helpless. All they want is someone to love and take care of them and in return they will give love back. THESE ANIMALS HAVE NO VOICE …..THEY NEED OURS.
OUR CHILDREN ARE WATCHING………
Pamela Maye
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