"This is the reply I received from the ASPCA to my letter to them, in issue # 2007-57, about McKay in Ohio,.....it gives many facts & ideas, but basically says that "OHIO RESIDENTS" have got to do most of the work, with our support/backup! It supplies some good Websites concerning the laws of all states. Onward, now, to another organization with questions about this atrocity in Ohio!" Dooks,...John R. & the n.j. gang of 4, USA. john rich <[log in to unmask]> ---- Dear John: Thank you for contacting the ASPCA regarding how to report your allegations of animal cruelty, The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), the oldest and one of the largest animal protection organizations in the United States, is not a parent organization for local SPCA's, humane societies or animal care and control organizations. 'SPCA' like 'Humane Society' and 'Anti-Cruelty Society,' is a generic term. 'SPCA" and 'humane society' are often interchangeable terms, but 'SPCA' sometimes, but not always, implies a law enforcement capability. Each law enforcement jurisdiction is specific for the locale and state it is located in. In most states all police officers have the right, or responsibility, to investigate animal cruelty complaints. You can see how authority is assigned in your state by going to this link and selecting your state: http://www.aspca.org/stateanticruelty For concerns about a breeder , contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture which oversees breeders. You can contact them directly at (301)504-6212 or go to their website at http://www.nal.usda.gov Much of the effective enforcement of animal control/cruelty laws does depend upon the laws in your community and state. Copies of specific animal laws can usually be obtained through your local City Hall, District Attorney's Office or through an attorney. To find the cruelty laws in your state, go to www.aspca.org/searchlaw, then select your state. It is important to document problems before taking action. Write down times, places and specific problems. Be specific and reasonable. Bring a copy of the statute to your law enforcement agency(s) and politely demand that they take action. Police, animal control and SPCA's can only enforce existing laws. These law enforcement agencies and other humane societies do not condone irresponsible, uncaring or ignorant pet owners, but often cannot correct the situation without the owner's cooperation. All too often investigators witness poor conditions, but if no law is violated agents must limit their actions to educating the owner about improving the care of his/her animals. If you feel an animal control, police, sheriff or SPCA officer did not resolve the issue, find out who they report to and lodge a complaint with the officer's supervisor. It takes local citizen involvement to make a difference in a community. National organizations have no jurisdiction or legal power in local issues but they can and do stand by, ready and willing to offer assistance to local governments and organizations through information, networking, materials, resources and small grants. Ultimately it is the local population that must either stand up and be counted in the action for reform or remain silent. It is vital that others get involved in your efforts for the community and for your local animals. Citizens have the right to voice their concerns at public meetings of local government, especially where public money is entrusted. Sometimes it is also vital that private citizens participate in the process for changes rather than animal control employees pursuing it alone. Please read this article to see what you can do to change the laws in your state: <http://www.petfinder.com/journalindex.cgi?path=public/animalissuesawareness/legalmatterspoliticalissues/1.39.6.txt> Cruelty to animals is illegal and can be a felony in over 30 states. Cruelty or neglect of animal is wrong and the ASPCA urges you to be a voice for animals whenever and wherever you can. Follow up with the situation to make sure it has been investigated and be persistent! If need be, contact your local government representatives and even the news media to bring attention to a cruel situation. If you would like to help effect serious change in animal welfare legislation, both on a state and national level, you can become a member of the ASPCA's Advocacy Brigade through The Society's website by going to www.aspca.org/lobby and take action. You will be sent regular mailings about pending state and national legislation that affect animal welfare. We rely on Advocacy Brigade members to write letters to legislators and local authorities. These letters from the general public make a strong impression and bring much needed attention and action to animal cruelty issues. If I can provide any additional information or answer any questions please feel free to contact me. Thank you for caring and sharing your concerns. Sincerely, Lanie Anton, ASPCA National Outreach Internet Manager 189 Berdan Avenue, #407, Wayne, NJ 07470 Email: [log in to unmask] Phone: 973-628-9494 Fax: 973-686-0173 www.aspca.org/shelters -- <[log in to unmask]> [Posted in FML 5534]