09/18/2018 - Laserfiche WebLink

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� s i I am here today because the chained dogs of Indian River County have no voice. The dogs shown on the video monitors live right here in Indian River County. They are held captive in housing behind the hospital. Law enforcement in Indian River County has confirmed that there are many other chained dogs in the county, and that they are often used to -guard drug houses and other illicit businesses. These dogs pose a threat to the public and law enforcement because their isolation, lack of exercise, fear, and frustration at their cruel plight breeds aggression. Indian River County currently has, tethering restrictions under the Crueltyto Animals Ordinance, but these restrictions are vague, contradictory and do not go far enough. Comprehensive anti -dog chaining ordinances have passed in many municipalities including Palm Beach and Seminole Counties. In fact, Chief Stone, the Director of Emergency Services for Indian River County, helped draft the ordinance for Seminole County. ,The Seminole County Ordinance is well-written and concise and would serve as an excellent model for Indian River County. The Humane Society of Vero Beach also supports this ordinance. A representative from the Humane Society, Ilka Daniels, joins me today to express support for this issue. In Closing, these dogs endure life on a six-foot chain 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in, the teeth of sweltering heat, rain and cold. They roam a circle no bigger than what their chain allows, the � ground under them trampled by their constant pacing. They are forced to sleep in their own waste and their dead eyes reflect a Fife of pain, cruelty and neglect. I respectfully request that your vote to adopt the Seminole County Anti -Tethering Ordinance.