Venango County Looks to Educate About Animal Welfare

| February 26, 2017

dog-1755423_1280VENANGO CO., Pa. (EYT) – Venango County’s approach to animal cruelty and neglect is one of education, more than punishment, according to county Sheriff Eric Foy (pictured above).

The county recently filled its vacant humane officer position when sheriff’s Deputy Brett Hill was sworn in. Hill has been in the department since 2012.

Foy explained that there was a void that needed to be filled, and Hill was the man to do it.

“Brett had quite a bit of studying of the humane laws to be able to pass the training to become a humane officer,” Foy said.

Hill completed the two-week training course in May of 2016. He is responsible for all animal calls in the county. Hill will also continue his duties as a deputy, but his salary didn’t increase.

The position had been open since last March when Regina Martin stepped down.

Hill will investigate animal abuse and cruelty reports, and he is able to file summary charges against offenders.

Foy pointed out that his department was not out to fine as many people as possible. The department is looking at it as providing more education to those who have animals.

“Education is a big part of it,” Foy said. “Sometimes people aren’t doing the right things for animals, such as making sure there is enough straw in a dog house or keeping a water bowl filled or having the water thawed.”

“Some of our older citizens have difficulty taking care of themselves, let along five or six cats. They mean well, and we aren’t looking to fine people like that.”

“But, there are some bad things that happen to animals, and we need to make sure people are taking care of what they have,” Foy said.

For animal welfare concerns, call the Sheriff’s office at 814-432-9565.


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