Nanaimo News Bulletin
August 14, 2007

To the Editor,

Re: Animal rescuer cleared of charges, Aug. 7.

What would be the most horrible thing that could happen for an animal rescuer who takes in many severely ill cats? It would clearly be to be charged with animal cruelty.

This happened to Stephanie Walker, but the judge threw the case out.

It took 17 months for the case to come to trial which was a long time in view of the severity of the charges. A criminal record could have been the result – for trying to help a very sick cat.

One wonders why this case came to court in the first place and why the BC SPCA recommended that charges be laid.

Local animal groups should co-operate. There are so many animals in distress in the Nanaimo area that competition is not a factor.

Our animals need all the help they can get. Disabled cats deserve their chance to live. Like all of us, it’s their one and only shot at life.

Both Walkers and our Nanaimo SPCA treat them in many instances, which is exactly what they should be doing.

Jean Martin

Lantzville