We applaud the efforts of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) for their continuing crusade to reduce cruel treatment of animals. Unfortunately, in my opinion, the laws are far too lax and the small fines for those who are found guilty are ridiculously low. It has been suggested that the problem is a federal government matter and we should be making our concerns known to our elected representative (MP) in Ottawa.

   Not too long ago we had an example of unusual and cruel treatment of some small puppies right here in the Crowsnest Pass. The issue is still before the courts, however we suggest that if the parties involved are found guilty the fine will be small and inconsequential.

   This past week we received a copy of AnimalKind published by the SPCA out of Edmonton. To demonstrate our point we have take a few quotes out of their Winter/Spring 2008 issue. Two extremely emaciated dogs, a German shepherd cross and a Rottweiler were taken into custody after the owner's ignored previous warnings from a SPCA Officer.

   After the starving dogs were treated they were put up for adoption and the owners pleaded guilty to charges under the Animal Protection Act. As expected the fines did not fit the crime when the owners were each fined $500.

   Another example of cruelty was reported when 69 cattle were found starved to death on a ranch in northern Alberta. Also on the property the SPCA Officers found 174 extremely emaciated cattle which were later moved off the property, fed and later sold at an auction.

   The owner pleaded guilty and was fined $1500.

   That’s not justice in my opinion.

   It would seem to me that it’s about time the laws in this country are reviewed and fines increased and in some cases the perpetrators end up in jail.