Aug 23, 2007

PRESS RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT:
Ria Brown
Lee County Animal Services
(239) 432-2090 Ext. 241 

Will the Vick Case Help In Local Animal Cruelty and Dog Fighting Cases?
 
Fort Myers, Florida, 8/23/07-We all have seen coverage of the Michael Vick dog fighting/animal cruelty case covered from just about every angle.  What is the local impact of this high-visibility case?  Lee County Animal Services reports that there has been an increase in public awareness regarding dog fighting and animal cruelty since the Michael Vick dog fighting case.  "Many people are discussing the issues and asking questions," notes Animal Services Director Scott Trebatoski, "That's a good thing. We have always taken public education as an important part of our mission and this gives us exciting new opportunities."  The agency also noted that it has seen an increase in awareness of all animal issues in general since the popularity of the Animal Planet Network and shows such as "Animal Precinct" and "Animal Cops." 

National news and network programming can have a great influence on the public.  Responsible journalists have taken the issue to the public.  People who knew nothing about the horrors of dog fighting, the killing of dogs that fighters feel do not meet standards for the fight, and the drugs and money often found at dog fights, now are much better informed. That has led to more proactive reports about possible animal abuse to local animal welfare and animal control agencies. The net result should be a decrease in these crimes. 

Although the public will have a greater knowledge in the area of dog fighting and animal cruelty, the outcome in each case will ultimately be determined by the facts presented.  While some people have speculated that the high visibility of the Vick case will mean higher penalties and longer prison sentences than we have seen in the past, the thought discounts the very foundation of our legal process – innocent until proven guilty.  Judges and juries wear the blindfold of justice and do not take outside influences (or other cases) into account. They base verdicts and sentencing on the specific facts in each individual case.  However, Animal Services officials are encouraged that there will be a better understanding of animal cruelty and dog fighting issues as a result of the Vick case. 

Lee County Animal Services has documentary/educational DVDs on the real horrors of dog fighting in their reference library. Members of the public and educators may view these videos during regular business hours – appointments are requested so groups can be coordinated. 

Lee County Animal Services provides animal control services throughout Lee County and operates an animal shelter to house stray and abandoned domestic animals.  It also administers low-cost spay/neuter programs, educational initiatives, and rabies and bite case control programs.  The shelter is located off Six Mile Cypress Parkway next to the Lee County Sheriff's Dept.  For more information call 432-2083

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