It is often said that the way a country treats their domestic animals is a reflection of the people of the country (Ghandi). In countries where the standard of living is high, animals such as dogs and cats are generally treated well and have laws in place to protect them. Enforced licensing laws in these countries prevent animals from roaming the streets and causing menace and public health risk to people and other animals.
In Trinidad, the most common form of animal abuse is passive abuse or neglect. In other words, leaving an animal chained or kenneled for hours every day, not seeking veterinary attention when it is necessary, not feeding animals an adequate nutrition or supplying fresh drinking water and not supplying shelter are common problems. It is not that Trinidadians don't love dogs and even cats, but they often don't understand the responsibilities of pet ownership. People in Trinidad often treat their pets like possessions and not like dependent living beings. Common cases that come into the T&T SPCA for treatment or euthanasia include obvious neglect such as leaving a wound or injury until the damage is so severe it is irreversible. For instance, we have seen cases of maggot wounds where large parts of flesh have been eaten away, or fractures that are months old, or cases of mange resulting in bald animals that could have been easily cured for a few dollars in the early stages.
Years ago, the five freedoms were put forth by Dr. John Webster in the UK and they have since been used to define animal welfare. The five freedoms include:
1) Freedom from thirst, hunger and malnutrition - by ready access to fresh water and a diet to maintain full health and vigour (chicken and rice alone is not adequate and chicken bones are extremely dangerous and inappropriate to feed).
2) Freedom from discomfort - by providing a suitable environment including shelter and a comfortable resting area.
3) Freedom from pain, injury and disease - by prevention or rapid diagnosis and treatment.
4) Freedom to express normal behaviour - by providing sufficient space, proper facilities and company of the animal's own kind or an owner/handler.
5) Freedom from fear and distress - by ensuring conditions that avoid mental suffering.
It is clear to see that we in Trinidad still have a way to go before our animals are treated the way they deserve to be.
Currently, we are dealing with a rise in active or violent animal abuse corresponding to the increase in violence in the country. The perpetrators of violent crimes who show blatant disregard for human life will also have no regard for animals. One of the reasons that cruelty laws have been strengthened to include criminal records and jail sentences in many countries is to attempt to identify people who are likely to be abusive or violent before they have a chance to hurt humans as well.
For instance, sociopaths who became violent murderers or serial killers often began their murderous careers by torturing animals. Sadly, children who are abused or forced to live in violent surroundings make take out their anger and frustration on defenceless animals. Identifying these children and addressing their situations is very important if we are to be able to help them. One of the aims of the TTSPCA is to educate the public about pet ownership and animal cruelty by visiting schools and hosting outreach programs in various communities.
If you would like us to visit your school or community please contact Mrs. Awai at 622-1367 or 628-1615.