Posted by EqualityB4theLawThinkAgain on August 6, 2008 at 3:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I wish our society had more concern for elder and child abuse victums. I like animals, but it is crazy that Carl Gadsden end up with $5000 in penalties over a bunch of dogs not being vaccinated. Perhaps, we should begin suing the employers of people without health insurance for neglect and abuse too and business owners lose custody of their business. Oh, one might say businesses can't afford to provide health care insurance to their workers. However, I wonder if there is a parellel that perhaps pet owners have to choose between vaccinations and meds for their pets or food for their families. The $5000 in penalties only makes a bad situation for poor people worse.

Posted by stand828 on August 6, 2008 at 5:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If a poor person cannot afford to take care of his animals, then he should not have them.

Mr. Gadsden's "bunch of dogs" was about 20, as I recall. Why? Who the f**k needs 20 dogs? He was irresponsible and, poor or not, he should have known better. If more people were fined and jailed over this, the problem would decrease. So please excuse me if I don't boo-hoo along with you, but the bastard got what he deserved.

I hope these guys this morning get the same...

Posted by wpc3iop on August 6, 2008 at 6:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)

stand828: I agree with your post...don't have animals if you can't take care of them properly (or children either)...

Posted by WhoCares on August 6, 2008 at 6:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Comparing people who have a choice and freedom of movement to animals who are locked in a cage and at the total mercy of the person owning them is typical liberal BS. If your job doesn't offer health insurance and you think it's that important, then change jobs! Try having your butt locked in a cage for 24/7 with little or no food and water...I bet you would find yourself worried about more than some minimum-wage junkie not having health insurance!!

What actually surprises me most about this article is that the judge actually had the testicles (or ovaries) enough to enforce the law a give the owner some type of punishment. Jail would have been much better!!!

Posted by moonpie on August 6, 2008 at 6:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Stand828, ditto that. It should be a crime. I love dogs and have two chocolate labs and just couldn't dream of someone having and trying to care for that many animals. I guess he just owned them he didn't really care for them, did he?

Posted by EvilGenius on August 6, 2008 at 7:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

EqualityB4theLawThinkAgain - "I wish our society had more concern for elder and child abuse victums." I agree. Not to mention the murder of the un-born.

There is no excuse for the abuse of anumals, I have 2 dogs that I rescued from the pound. I love they are great dogs and friends.

Posted by charlestonpride on August 6, 2008 at 7:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I like the fact that he is paying fines. I don't want him in jail because I (and you) would have to pay for his room and board. Why would he deserve a bed, food, medical when his "pets" didn't.

Posted by DaisyMae on August 6, 2008 at 8:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)

My 13 year old daughter watched this on the news last night. She was very distraught over this. Called me into the room crying. She was reminded of my sister who has 2 cats who recently had 9 kittens. (total) My sister now only has the original 2 cats, having sent a few to the shelter. It distressed my daughter a lot to think that the kittens were euthanized. Pretty traumatizing realization for a kid. I think at 13 I only knew that I was crazy about pets.

I think the news said that the shelter euthanized 300 or so pets in a month. So sad that this could have been avoided.

In the words of the immortal Bob Barker... "Please spay and nueter your pets"

Posted by LadyRenegade on August 6, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

As an abused child, I will tell you that nobody gives a rat's tail about you. You learn this growing up. There was nobody there for me except my dog. He lay next to me as my face buried into his fur wet with my tears. The Xanadu society Equality wishes for is not going to happen because people are too self-centered; it's more like a Xanax society. There will always be people taking care of other people because they will scream and yell "Take care of me, I'm poor" (get a job, get two if you have to, get rid of the cable and fastfood) or "I'm old" (and you didn't know you'd get that way?) or "I had a kid and now I can't take care of it" (condom, birth control pills or one little word "NO", then see complaint re: poor) What you won't hear is "Bark barkBARK BaRk Woof WOOF Woffff!" Oh you might hear it, but you won't know what it means. But there is every likelihood that it could be "I haven't ever had any shots" "I'm chained in this yard all day and night with dirty water and leftover kitchen scraps to eat." If we don't take care of the animals, then we are showing what a horrible people we truly are. They are NOT disposable! I have 6 dogs and 3 cats, I will have more when I know that I can AFFORD them, that means for their lifetime. That includes walking, grooming, training, play, and proper diet. I wish I could have more right now.

Posted by ASHLEY_COOPER on August 6, 2008 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think it was President Bush who responded to the question, "What do you think of euthanasia" replied, "I don't really care what those youth in Asia do as long as they don't have weapons of mass destruction".

Jesus cast devils out of a man into a herd of swine which ran off a cliff into the sea and drown. Now PETA is accusing Him of animal cruelty and seeking to have Him tried in absentia at Mempkin Abbey, and fined $10,000 for each hog that perished.

Oh My!

Posted by RTC on August 6, 2008 at 9:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)

This makes me so angry. I agree with everyone that said that you shouldn't have children or pets if you can't afford them.
Animals, just like small children, depend on us for their care. What they give back in return is unmeasurable.
There is a reason why they say that a dog is a man's best friend. I happen to love cats too, and most any kind of animal. They bring so much joy into our lives and ask so little in return.
If people think that animals are useless then they need to see first hand how animals are used for therapy in the elderly or for autistic children.
Dogs are trained to help the handicapped, not to mention the ones used for rescue, and for bomb and drug detection.
Animals due have a place in this world, and they deserve to be treated properly.

Posted by drp7773 on August 6, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Growing up we always had cats or dogs, we gave them a good home, fed them, watered them, brought them inside when it got real cold etc. and they lived out their lives. Vets were never considered because they were pets, animals. Now what I'm seeing is all these animals at the shelter if they do not get picked after awhile then they kill them and this is alright because they have no choice but its not alright to do what we used to do because like some have said if you cant give them the right foods and take them to the vet for shots, nail clipping, checkups, surgeries, and anything else that you would for a Human being then you are a bad person and should not have the animal. Well I don't want to be a bad person so go ahead and give them the shot because I wont be taking one home and live by your rules and also make the vet as rich as a doctor in a hospital.

Posted by Marianne0558 on August 6, 2008 at 9:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)

If you care about your animals, don't send them to the shelter. They will more likely than not be euthanized.
Owner give-ups are the first to go, they have less time in the shelter than stray animals.
If you are taking care of a stray for more than 10 days, the shelter considers the stray YOUR animal.

Do NOT send them to this shelter.

Before the new building was in working order, the shelter would euthanize the animals and throw them in the dumpster out back. It smelt god-awful.

Posted by hightide on August 6, 2008 at 10:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"Comparing people who have a choice and freedom of movement to animals who are locked in a cage and at the total mercy of the person owning them is typical liberal BS."

The end of that sentence is the most ignorant thing I've read here, other than the losers in the article who abused so many helpless animals that have no voice and depend on their humans for care, food, and LOVE.

People who cannot be responsible for pets (or kids) should never ever have them. God gave us these wonderful companion animals to love like a regular family member. That's how I grew up, how most people I know grew up, and how my husband & I live now. Hell, we spent more on our cat's healtcare earlier this year than we have on our own in several years. Sure it sucked to dole out a thousand bucks, but we would have never considered NOT doing it. He's our pet... our little furry kid.

I feel awful for the pets who were rescued too late. I also feel for the pets who are stuck in shelters and rescues while people pay hundreds or thousands even for purebred dogs.

Posted by Kaipo on August 6, 2008 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

A Dog’s Prayer

Treat me kindly, beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of mine.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world’s sweetest music, as you know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ears.
When it is cold and wet, please take me inside, for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer use to bitter elements. And I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth.
Keep my bowl filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp, play, and do your bidding, to walk by your side.
And, beloved master, should the great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest – and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your arms.

Posted by Kaipo on August 6, 2008 at 11:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)

A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS.........

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.

~Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without God's critters~
Now please pass this on to other pet owners. We do not have to wait for Heaven, to be surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness. It is here on earth and has four legs!

Posted by LadyRenegade on August 6, 2008 at 11:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)

drp, there are alternative measures for taking care of so many animals, I assure you I am not so rich that I'm willing to pay a vet because Skippy broke a nail. ;) My animals get their rabies vaccines from a vet because it is a requirement of the state. As someone who has always had a house full of dogs, I've had to learn how to keep healthy animals using methods that most vets won't share. The reason for the yearly vet visit isn't just because they want your money, it's for the welfare of the animals. Cancer, glaucoma, infections, and diseases can be caught early and eliminated or at least options discussed. Some dogs that are overweight are so because they have thyroid issues, not because they're eating too much. Vets should have an important role in the life of every animal. Many people who grow up to be vets, assistants, rescuers, etc. fell in love with animals at a very young age. Most do what they do for the animals, not for the money. As to the "right foods" talk about pulling wool! If the first two ingredients are meat (preferably chicken as it digests better), and there is no BHA (preservative). Feed your animal the food. Don't pay for 'X food' because the commercial on TV makes you feel guilty. That's just as ridiculous as putting clothes on dogs.

Posted by ironhorse on August 6, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Give more money to the SPCA and Humane Society....less (or none at all) to "victim's compensation funds".

Posted by walleyedwoman1215 on August 6, 2008 at 12:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

drp7773, huh?

Posted by Xnavykat on August 6, 2008 at 1:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

It's a shame that there are so many unwanted and abused animals. There are so many out there for a family to adopt, yet people choose over and over again to purchase their dog from a breeder. I will never get a dog from a breeder. We adopted a dog from the shelter and he was so sweet and well behaved (once we got him trained). Unfortunately, he had to be put down because we couldn't afford the surgery at the time which may or may not have been successful along with rehab. When he was euthanized I was right there with him. Our current dog came from an owner who didn't want her any more and came with health issues(which were resolved) as she wasn't cared for properly. Believe me, when the time comes to get another dog we will look to a shelter. And yes, both our dogs were spayed and neutered.

Posted by dude on August 6, 2008 at 1:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Kaipo- excellent 10 comm. post.

Gadsen should be fined $1000 for each dog. If he can't afford to take care of them he shouldn't have them in the first place. I like the idea of putting him in a cage as well.

drp7773- it's time for your medication

Posted by iceman1978 on August 6, 2008 at 2:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Kaipo, I nearly got a lump in my throat reading those commandments. It's heart breaking to me when I see stories of animal neglect and abuse like this.

Right now I have a Tortoishell cat named Dagny. She's about six and is an indoor cat. One of her favorite places in the house is to jump up on the pool table, curl up in one corner and rest her head on the edge so she can look out the window to the street. I want to eventually get a second cat so she will have a companion. Maybe a Persian or a Russian Blue.

Posted by iceman1978 on August 6, 2008 at 2:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Animals do the funniest things sometime. Every morning when I get ready for work I lay my clothes out on the bed and then go into the bathroom to shower. When I get back in my room, there she is, curled up on my shirt and pants, purring. Then she has this thing she'll do that's like kneading bread when she climbs in my lap while I'm watching tv.

One time while I was house sitting for some friends who have dogs and birds I could hear the birds one morning. At first they were calling out the dogs names, and then I could hear coughing. One of the birds was imitating a smokers cough from this guys wife.

Posted by ForPnC on August 6, 2008 at 3:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Reading this damn near broke my heart in two. The only consolation I can take (and it's not much) is that they're not suffering anymore. I like my dogs more than I like most people I know.

Posted by dogfriendlychas on August 6, 2008 at 10:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Gandhi said that a society could be measured by how it treats its animals.

The south in general should be ashamed of the way it treats its animals. Every day THOUSANDS of animals lose their lives because people are too stupid, ignorant, cheap, or lazy to spay and neuter their pets or honor the commitment that they made when they brought home that puppy or kitten.

I think this article missed a good opportunity to highlight the problem of "owner surrenders" at shelters like Charleston Animal Society. As a poster mentioned above, owner surrendered pets are the first to be euthanized because there is no required holding period. People show up at CAS and other local shelters with their various sob stories telling the volunteers how wonderful their pet is and that they are SURE that they will find a "good home." Why would these people assume that anyone else is going to want the animal they just threw away? You had this animal in your home, part of your life and you just signed a piece of paper indicating that you understood that the animal would face lethal injection. What chance does this animal have? Easy answer. None.

What about the people who don't want to spay and neuter their pets for any host of idiotic reasons? You know what, if you can't afford the cost of vetting, heartworm pills, flea preventative, and decent food, you have NO BUSINESS owning an animal to begin with. Owning an animal costs money -- money you agree to spend when you bring an animal home.

I honestly think that areas with mandatory spay and neuter laws have the right idea. If people can't make responsible choices on their own, I see no problem with imposing the right decision on them. The animals are the only ones who pay for their owners' bad choices. Make mandatory licensing laws while you're at it. Will this put animal ownership out of reach of many? Yup. But, again, if you can't afford a yearly fee, you shouldn't own a dog or cat.

Every person who abandons an animal at the shelter should be forced to watch the animal that their pet will take the place of be euthanized -- because that is the reality of what that owner is doing. Send owners a nice note telling them the fate (good or bad) of the dog or cat they dumped. Let's not sugar coat this.

I'm sure many will come on here screaming about their "rights" but you know what, your way isn't working. Time to try something that will.

Posted by ForPnC on August 7, 2008 at 3:26 a.m. (Suggest removal)

dogfriend -
I agree with almost all of your posting. The only part I don't agree with is the licensing. This amounts to a yearly tax for each pet in the household. I've lived in areas where this was mandatory. Few people did it and it was never enforced. The ones that did were hounded every year by the city that taxes were due. If the poor animal died the owner had to take papers into the Auditors office to prove it. Myself, I never paid these taxes. Never will.

My dogs live a better life than most people I know. That's because they deserve it.