Support law to protect animals in South Carolina
People everywhere, even in Europe, reacted with outrage at the face of Caitlyn, the Charleston dog with her muzzle taped shut. Her story and picture almost broke the internet.
A group called SHAME rallied in Columbia for stronger animal cruelty laws — South Carolina in 45th in the nation in laws that protect animals and failed to pass one law to help animals this year.
A puppy mill bust near Conway last spring resulted in 147 dogs, many in terrible health, being seized by Horry County. Pictures revealed the horrible conditions these dogs were forced to live in. In outcry a new local animal group formed — Animal Voice Alliance — to rally for change in animal welfare laws. This grassroots group crusades as the animals' voice.
Thankfully, Horry County is listening and is proposing ordinances to protect dogs in commercial breeding facilities. It is time for change against animal cruelty and neglect. Horry County is now taking the right steps. It is a beginning.
Everyone can help by lending support to this important legislation.
The writer lives in Myrtle Beach.
This story was originally published August 30, 2015 at 2:59 PM with the headline "Support law to protect animals in South Carolina."