----- Original Message -----
From: Carmina
To: Larry Campbell
Cc: office/animaladocates
Sent: Monday, December 30, 2002 9:45 PM
Subject: Chained/Yard Dogs

Mayor Campbell and Council,
It is extremely heartbreaking to see the suffering of chained, neglected, mistreated, and socially isolated dogs. They deserve so much more. Common sense would dictate that a civilized society would not tolerate this and those who inflicted such abuse would be prosecuted.

Animal Advocates Society has been tireless in their efforts to bring attention to this problem, attempting to reform antiquated laws. They have investigated, documented, photographed, and reported many cases to the SPCA and the City of Vancouver. What has been done? The SPCA hasn't lived up to their mandate to "speak for those who cannot speak for themselves"; rather their efforts have been largely concentrated on silencing Animal Advocates. The City of Vancouver, despite receiving AAS's reports believes the SPCA will do something and that the charter does not permit it to adopt animal welfare bylaws. What is it going to take to implement change?

Dogs require social interaction and suffer tremendous psychological harm by being ignored. Research has shown that there is a great risk to the public if these animals escape, as is evidenced by the recent attack of two dogs on a fourteen year old girl. Now the poor animals will be destroyed and a girl's life is forever changed. We strongly urge you to make it a priority to "raise the bar" and be leaders in the area of animal welfare.

Carmina Gooch Family