Remembering Max, the Alaskan Malamute

If you remember, a few years ago, the case of an Alaskan Malamute that died of heatstroke in the backyard of a terrace was splashed across the frontpages of local newspapers.

Back then, a few likeminded (animal welfare) individuals were struggling with the authorities in justifying episodes of the nordic dog's incessant coyote-like, soulful howling, as clear signs of animal neglect. They struggled in explaining how animal cruelty involves not just the exterior, but the psychological aspect of an animal's well-being. Animal neglect may exist with absolutely no signs of abuse obvious to the naked eye, but they argue(d) that animal neglect can take place when its rightful owner fails to tend to its well-being, with the owner's prolonged periods of absence (lack of social interaction), which affects, just the same, the animal's welfare as a living, sentient creature.

Animal abuse must be seen holistically, and should not, then, be constrained in what that skims across the surface.

Extracted and edited from an email newsletter from PETA, here are some good pointers, backed with clear rationales that elucidate why immediate action needs to be taken by anyone when an act of cruelty is witnessed:

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If an animal is in a life-threatening situation, call authorities immediately. Follow up with them in a timely manner to determine their findings and their planned course of action. If they do not respond right away, call your local animal welfare organisation.

After you contact authorities, prepare a short written statement detailing the key points of what you observed. Give dates, approximate times, and locations. Timely fact-gathering is crucial—the more time that passes, the greater the risk that evidence will disappear, injuries will heal, or you'll forget specific details.

Written statements from other witnesses will help back up your observations, and if possible, take pictures and date them—photos or videos will strengthen your case. Always keep a dated record of everyone you've contacted, along with the content and outcome of your discussions.

Never forward a letter, photograph, or other documentation to anyone without first making a copy for your own files. Make it clear to authorities that you wish to pursue the case and that you are willing to lend your assistance if necessary.

Be sure to follow up! If you stay involved, authorities are more likely to do the same. If the first contact doesn't produce results, go straight to a supervisor. If that doesn't work, appeal to local government officials, such as the mayor, the district attorney, or city council members.

A call to the media in your area (television and print) can move mountains. Above all, don't give up—you may be an animal's only hope! Helping abused or neglected animals can be difficult and heart-wrenching, but they are depending on you to take action. Please contact PETA if officials fail to respond quickly to your complaint or if you need guidance or support. Together, we can save even more lives.

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