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Updated 11:00 AM Tuesday, November 24, 2009

The case in which a couple was charged with cruelty to animals and child endangering after police allegedly found a dog starved to death and two young children allegedly living in unsanitary conditions in their home may be a reminder that there really are no species lines when it comes to the disregard for life and suffering (“Dead dog leads to couple’s arrest,” Nov. 18).

I cannot begin to say how many cases I’ve seen involving animal neglecters who have also neglected their children or other human dependants. Let’s hope that these people, if convicted, are given jail time and a lifetime ban on owning animals.

Our animals depend on us for survival. If, for any reason, you are having trouble meeting your animals’ needs, please don’t let them suffer. Options and assistance are available. Contact your local animal shelter immediately for help. ...

Martin Mersereau

Director

Emergency Response Team, Cruelty Investigations

Department

People for the Ethical

Treatment of Animals

Norfolk, Va.

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Cruelty and neglect are horrible things, whether done to a human being or animal. No one is going to argue whether or not the life of a child takes precedence over the life of a dog. That's not the point. The point is that apathy, cruelty and indifference are rampant in our society and we need to educate parents and also children on the importance of being responsible and ethical human beings.

Aime
5:10 PM, 11/28/2009

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We need to wake up. Our children are much MORE important than a DOG, and the penalties for child abuse must be more severe.
Wake up people. "Let’s hope that these people, if convicted, are given jail time and a lifetime ban on owning animals." But let them have more kids...right? You are an idiot. Let's have these morons spayed and neutered.

tom
9:10 AM, 11/25/2009

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