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"Honesty, loyalty, compassion,
and equal treatment for all are the cement that holds Animal General together."
- Director, Dr. Howell
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Tel: 212-501-9600

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May 2009 newsletter[ Download pdf»]

We Speak for Those Who Cannot Speak for Themselves

"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
- Mohandas Ghandi

Animal General recognizes that the discussion of abuse towards any human being or animal is a topic that is gruesome, distasteful, and unsettling. Such behavior, while it represents the sick and twisted conduct of a few very disturbed individuals who walk among us, still causes immeasurable suffering to those touched by it. Because of the deep and lasting physical and psychological damage that this type of behavior can inflict upon innocent animals and humans, we are devoting this issue of the newsletter to raising the awareness of our readers. We hope that what follows will give you pertinent facts and offer practical methods for recognizing and reporting such savage behavior to the proper authorities.

Bad things happen to good kittens

While we are happily going about our daily lives in the safe and warm cocoon of Animal General, we forget, at least momentarily, that there is evil in the world. The following is a true story that unraveled during December of 2008.

A client came to us with two kittens that he had just adopted from a local rescue group. One kitten, named Bugsy, appeared to have a broken leg. The other kitten, Rufus, was healthy. The client did not know how Bugsy had broken his leg. Bugsy's leg was placed in a splint. The kittens got their first set of vaccinations and stayed with us overnight.

Continue reading this story, more info and resources on animal abuse prevention and reporting»pdf icon

Animal General Helps Break the Chain of Abuse

Pets Protected from Domestic Violence Settings

In most cases, domestic violence shelters do not accommodate companion animals. This dilemma often leads victims to choose to remain in peril rather than to leave their beloved pets behind.

Animal General has the distinction of being New York City's sole veterinary hospital to actively address issues of domestic violence. The hospital provides shelter and care, free-of-charge, to pets of battered women for six months while they get situated in a safe environment. This arrangement enables victims of domestic violence to enter shelters with peace of mind regarding the care of their pets. When these individuals are able to secure a new home, their pets are waiting for them. It's a beautiful thing. Contact Animal General at (212) 501-9600.

Newsletter Feedback

Do you have questions, ideas or feedback about the Animal General newsletter? We welcome all input from our loyal clients and readers! Please don't hesitate to drop a line to our writer, Emaline Karam with any comments about the features of our publication. Thank you for your continued interest in Animal General!

It’s The Law!

In 1999, the New York State Legislator passed a law making deliberate or "aggravated animal cruelty" a felony. The provisions of the law state that those convicted of deliberate cruelty face a two-year prison sentence, a $5,000.00 fine, mandatory counseling, a temporary or permanent ban on pet ownership, and the inclusion of the pet’s protection orders.

Passive cruelty resulting from neglect is considered a misdemeanor. The maximum sentence is a one-year prison term and/or a $1,000.00 fine.

For further information on the laws concerning cruelty to animals in any state, visit the ASCPA website for comprehensive information.