Another Companion Animal Destroyed by Providence Animal Control (September 2, 2010) Tyson came to Friends of Attleboro Animal Shelter at the end of March of 2010. He was under the standard 10 day quarantine that all strays are put under in Attleboro. On April 5, 2010, immediately after those 10 days were up he was Neutered and given all Vaccines (Parvo, Rabies, Distemper) and Heartworm tested (negative). In May / June 2010 Tyson was diagnosed with IBD which is Irritable Bowel Disease. He was given medication daily and on a strict Diet of Holistic Lamb based food and only natural Lamb based treats. Later in July / early August 2010, Tyson was diagnosed with borderline Thyroid issues and was put on a medication which he took twice daily. Other than the IBD and the Thyroid Tyson was a Healthy 5 year old Dog. On Saturday August 28, 2010 Tyson went with his potential adopter Louis DiBacco at approximately 10am. Louis was very excited to have Tyson join his family and Louis was under the mindset “to bring Tyson with him to places and get him out to meet and greet”. Later on in the day he took Tyson to visit friends in Providence, RI. At around 5:30/6:00pm Tyson slipped from his lead and took off running down Enfield Street in Providence. Louis notified Providence Police and left a message on the Voicemail at Attleboro Animal Shelter and Providence Animal Shelter, as he continued to search for Tyson. Sunday August 29, 2010 when Attleboro ACO’s arrived, they took note of his message and Volunteers were notified of Tyson’s disappearance. By 8:30am Two Volunteers from Friends of Attleboro Animal Shelter headed right down to Providence to try and find Tyson. We immediately searched the area calling Tyson’s name and squeaking his favorite Ducky toy and went door to door. At around 11am we proceeded to Providence Animal Shelter, where we followed an ACO Van into the Shelter driveway. We ran right over to the Animal Control Officer’s Van with a picture of Tyson and asked “have you seen this dog”? , we were told “nope, don’t look familiar”. We then explained what happened and with No enthusiasm the Providence ACO told us…”do you know how many of THOSE dogs are out there”? He proceeded to tell us they were not open and to call back at 11am on Monday. We then headed back to Attleboro Animal Shelter, where other Volunteers were ready to help in the search and had prepared 100 Fliers of Tyson to start posting in Providence. At around 1:00pm on Sunday August 29, 2010 Three Volunteers headed back into Providence to Start pounding the pavement and distribute and hang fliers. We placed 100 Fliers in the area of Enfield St, Smith St.,Admiral St., Chad Brown projects and the many side streets in the area of Providence College. We returned back to the Attleboro Animal Shelter at around 4:00pm and regrouped, posted Ads on Facebook and Craigslist, yahoo k9 Amber Alert Group, Emailed the flier to the general email of providence Animal Shelter at animal@providenceri.com, and prayed for some siting calls, which we received none. Monday August 30, 2010, I called Providence Animal Shelter at 11:00am when they opened. They were asked if there were any “Tyson Sitings” and “did you get the flier that was emailed over to you”? The Answer was “No we have not picked up any dogs matching your description (White Bulldog/Pit mix with a Brown patch over his right Eye), and that an email should be sent to Dave Holden at 'dholden@providenceri.com”, which was sent that day at 11:18am with a copy of the Flier and the info on his situation. They were told that we would be in the area distributing more fliers and to please call with any info, as Tyson is a friendly dog who needs medication. We continued to look, walking and talking to everyone, posting fliers and calling Tyson’s name – again with no luck. Later in the evening on Monday August 30, 2010 at 5:00pm several more Volunteers of Friends of Attleboro Animal Shelter and members of our community headed back into the Providence area to look for Tyson. We refused to give up and had more Fliers printed and we continued to pound the pavement looking for Tyson, knocking on Doors, hanging up Fliers And begging for assistance on Facebook and Craigslist. Again, we had no sitings, no tips, but we refused to lose hope. Tuesday August 31, 2010 at approximately 6:30pm we went back into Providence with more fliers, knocking on more doors, hanging fliers in local stores, giving them to Providence Police, Cabs, Busses – anyone we could hand a flier to we did…we just wanted to find Tyson! Wednesday September 1, 2010 I received a call on my Cell (which was the number listed on the Fliers) from a gentleman who resided at 467 Admiral Street in Providence. He proceeded to say Tyson was in his backyard on Saturday August 28th around 10:00pm and he called Providence Police Department to let them know. He stated they gave Tyson some water and put a blanket out, but did not want to move him as one of the Tenants in the house saw him get hit by a car and he was limping. Animal Control finally came to that location around 1:00am or so based on reports from a tenant also residing at 467 Admiral Street. After getting off the phone with Isaac, a cal was made to various ER Vets in the area since Providence Animal Control was unreachable at that time. That is when we learned that MA/RI Euthanized a dog that may fit Tyson’s description – he was euthanized Saturday August 28, 2010 at approximately 2:00am in the back of the Providence Animal Shelter’s vehicle. I then proceeded to reach out to Friends of Attleboro Animal Shelter volunteers who could goto the Providence Shelter and get to the bottom of this horrific situation. Two Friends of Attleboro Animal Shelter Volunteers sat at the Providence Shelter waiting for them to open. At around 11:20am they decided to open the doors to the public and the Volunteers entered the Shelter armed with several pictures of Tyson then asked the famous question “have you seen this dog”? AGAIN the answer was “No”. The Volunteers continued to question the Animal Control Officers, and at that time were told again “no we have not seen your dog”! One ACO proceeded to say “do you know how many of THOSE breeds we see each day”? After about 30 minutes of bickering with Providence Animal Control Officers, One finally admitted and said “oh yeah I did pick up a dog at that location Saturday – but he had parvo and we euthanized him”. Then he stated that it is the law, they immediately cremate Parvo dogs and there was no way of knowing for sure if it was Tyson or not. The Volunteers refused to accept that and continued to question them in hopes of confirming whether it was Tyson or not. At that time one of the Volunteers ran out to her car and grabbed her laptop where there were many more pictures of Tyson and that is when a female staff sitting at the desk got out of her seat and went out back. A few moments later she came back and said “oh yea I think your dog is out back” and at the time the two Friends of Attleboro Animal Shelter volunteers were walked to a walk-in freezer outside and confirmed by Identification that indeed it was our baby Tyson. Providence Animal Shelter was called daily at around 11:15am when they opened, 1:00 figuring it was after lunch and 2:45 before they closed and was always told “sorry we don’t have your dog”. We were doing everything that Providence Animal Shelter suggested via their website for a Lost Dog and then some! We are a determined group looking for a loved dog and reached out thru any and all channels possible. How could this happen? They knew…how could they not? They thought Tyson was just “another one of THOSE dogs”….well he wasn’t and because we didn’t walk away and accept their answers we were able to find our darling Tyson…lying lifeless and cold all alone with nobody to love him in Providence Animal Shelter’s Freezer. About 20 minutes after leaving the Providence shelter after identifying Tyson’s dead body, we called providence to say “we want his body – Tyson needs to come home, our ACO is coming to get him” and that is when they said “NO it is against the law to bring him across state lines”. I found that interesting – as they transported him across state lines before and after they authorized his execution. Providence told us he would be cremated on Thursday September 2, 2010 and we could pick up his ashes on Friday September 3, 2010.We hung up and called right back again and said we are going to ask out Vet to come out there and get a sample from Tyson, to prove he was healthy and they proceeded to tell us “sorry he is in the incinerator as we speak”. Let me refresh some things here…….The Same Animal Control officer (Michael Disano) that was personally handed the flier on Sunday morning admitted he was the one who picked him up that night (August 29th). This was the ACO that said “nope haven’t seen your dog” just 8 hours after electing to have him killed! I cannot help but wonder how can he forget about a dog he just had killed hours before he was handed a flier on that same dog? Officer Michael Disano told us that on that Saturday evening he saw Tyson at the location he was dispatched to, called for him to “come here” and Tyson did. At that Time Tyson was exhausted, scared and very thirsty (can you blame him?). He also stated that Tyson smelled of Parvo…he said “you know that smell”, which is why they state they elected to euthanize Tyson. I know Providence is on the Alert after they were recently under quarantine for Parvo. However, let’s not forget what the reports made public state…the only dogs Euthanized by Providence Animal Shelter during their outbreak….were “those kinda dogs”, you know..dogs like Tyson. Officer Michael Disano and Dave Holden gave us a brief summary of the events that night. They simply said Officer Michael Disano drove Tyson to MA/RI Veterinary and elected to have him Euthanized as he had Parvo. Tyson never went into the Vet office, he was Euthanized in the back of a dark ACO Van. At that time they were suppose to cremate him as they stated that is the law…but they never did he was placed in the freezer at the Providence Animal Shelter for another 3 days. Let me remind you as Tyson’s story is long……Tyson was fully up to date on his Vaccinations he was a 5 year old adult dog who was in the same location since March until that one day. Yes he had IBD which caused issues with his stools and being hit by a car will cause Anal glands to express which do smell quite strong…..Tyson played with all dogs at the Attleboro Shelter (except 2 that are not dog friendly)….all our dogs were tested the day we identified Tyson…not to anyone’s surprise ALL are negative! What they didn’t know or seem to care about is that Tyson wasn’t just “one of those dogs” he was a dog that was loved, cared for, vetted and now missed! He was truly a phenomenal dog full of love and life that they sucked right out of him! Anyone who met Tyson loved Tyson….THAT is the kind of dog Tyson was! Goto http://www.providenceri.com/animal/ and look at what they say to do when you lose your pet under the “Finding a Lost Pet” section. Tyson is a wake up call…..the ones who loved him did all that and then some….and still they killed him! Tyson deserves to be heard and remembered!!!! I and I know many others feel an emptiness over losing Tyson….The tears are painful and the hurt is fresh he did NOT deserve this and he WILL be heard! Tyson baby WE LOVE YOU! WE ARE THE VOICE OF TYSON…THE VOICE TO SHARE HIS STORY AND DEMAND CHANGE…THIS IS TYSON’S FINAL JOURNEY AND QUEST!   More... Another dog killed by Providence Animal Control (September 1, 2010) A few days ago PROVIDENCE ANIMAL CONTROL KILLED ANOTHER DOG UNECESSARLY...They are nothing more than cold-blooded killers at that shelter...more to come on this story Copyright Providence Journal/Evening Bulletin Jul 23, 2003 * The investigation follows complaints from leaders of the Defenders of Animals that dogs and cats are being starved and mistreated. * * * PROVIDENCE - Prompted by complaints by animal-rights advocates, Police Chief Dean Esserman is launching a review of operations at the city animal shelter. Esserman will conduct the review and then make recommendations to Mayor David N. Cicilline, according to Karen Southern, a mayoral spokesperson. The decision to look into operations at the Providence Municipal Shelter came after leaders of the Defenders of Animals Inc., alleged that dogs and cats are being starved and mistreated at the facility off Allens Avenue. Dennis Tabella, director of Defenders of Animals, met with Cicilline and Esserman yesterday morning to discuss the animal shelter. In a statement issued before the half-hour meeting, Tabella said he planned to present photos, written statements and eyewitness accounts to bolster his position. There are serious problems at the Providence Municipal Shelter," Tabella said. Among them, Tabella said, he has reason to believe that cats and dogs are not being fed on a regular basis. And, last month, the group blasted shelter officials for sidestepping a new city ordinance that bans the use of the gas chamber to destroy stray animals; animal-rights advocates discovered that some stray animals were being put to death at a carbon- monoxide chamber in Smithfield. Tabella's organization succeeded in obtaining a temporary restraining order to keep the animals from being destroyed by carbon monoxide, which is determined to be less humane than the more- expensive lethal injection. In late June, Smithfield town officials temporarily halted the practice of allowing other municipalities to destroy animals in its gas chamber for $10 each. Still, animal-rights advocates believe that city animal-control officers may be unnecessarily destroying cats and dogs, according to Tabella's statement. They maintain that the dogs and cats deserve better treatment. They planned to ask Cicilline to make drastic changes" at the animal shelter, including removing shelter employee Frederick C. Mickey Bailey. Bailey a convicted felon who was fired from his job in the Department of Public Works more than 20 years ago served time for sexual assault and other crimes, but was reinstated to the city payroll last summer, after an arbitrator ruled that the city was wrong to deny him a job. Bailey, who works the night shift, cleans cages at the shelter.   More... You can help thousands of animals in just a few hours! (July 21, 2010) In the next 12 months, you will have 8,760 hours to spend. Can you spare four hours of it in order to save thousands of animals in RI? We need your support regarding legislative issues on both the state and local levels. Please call us at 401-461-1922.   More... Stop the Devocalization of Dogs and Cats in Rhode Island (July 31, 2010) http://www2.turnto10.com/news/news/2010/jul/26/bay-state-law-stops-dog-barking-surgery-ar-164912/ You Can help Stop the Devocalization of Dogs and Cats in Rhode Island Just like they Stopped it in Massachusetts! We will keep you informed and let you know how you can help in the future. (401)461-1922 "This issue should not be a question of convenience but a question of humaneness. Devocalization is mutilation. Cutting the vocal cords only masks the problem. A behaviorist/dog trainer should be sought to find the real problem. The animal should be spayed/neutered, which would have a positive impact on the hormone that could be causing aggressive barking After being devocalized, many dogs suffer breathing problems and inhale water and saliva, which can enter into their lungs and result in pneumonia." --Dennis Tabella NBC/TV Ten Sunday, July 25, 2010 Devocalization has been banned in the Bay State.   More... Would you like to see Rhode Island become a no-kill state? (July 31, 2010) Would you like to see this happen in Rhode Island? Delaware Companion Animal Protection Act mandates collaboration between shelters and rescue groups. Under the new law, a shelter cannot kill an animal if a rescue group is willing to save that animal's life. It also makes convenience killing illegal. Shelters can no longer kill an animal when there are available cages elsewhere. The Defenders of Animals Board of Directors' Secretary, Maureen Morse, will be coordinating this effort in Rhode Island. A draft of this legislation will be sent to members of Defenders of Animals for their feed back. Please contact us at 401-461-1922 if you are a member and would like to be actively involved with this effort.  More... Rhode Island's State Vet wants feral cats killed (March 1, 2010) The State Veterinarian, Dr. Scott Marshall, wants to kill feral cats in Rhode Island. Euthanasia eyed as feral cat solution in Rhode Island 5:08 PM Fri, Feb 26, 2010 I Permalink Richard Salit Email Providence Journal Blog PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Rhode Island's top veterinarian says efforts to reduce the state's population of wild cats have fallen short and that euthanasia may be the answer. "I just don't see another solution to it." said state veterinarian Scott Marshall "The solutions we have tried are ineffective." Marshall says that feral cats are a health risk to humans and other animals because of the diseases they potentially spread, including parasites, feline HIV and rabies, which has been detected in a few cats in the past few years. He has proposed requiring animal control officers to impound "roaming and feral cats" and mandating that animal shelters accept them and put them to death. Dennis Tabella, director of Defenders of Animals, calls the idea "inhumane and outrageous" and says that "no cat, domestic or feral, that spends time outdoors, will be safe." "If this becomes law, your neighbor will be able to take your cat and turn it over to a shelter where you cat is likely to be euthanized," he says. Extra: The Providence Journal's special multimedia report on feral cats. Sen. John J. Tassoni Jr., on behalf of the state Department of Environmental Management, has introduced a bill drafted by Marshall. But following Tabella's rebuke of the legislation, Tassoni says he will withdraw it. "I put them in, and now I am starting to get some calls and complaints," Tassoni said on Friday. "I made a decision to pull all of the bills and basically concentrate on jobs, the economy and the budget. I can't be chasing around feral cats when I've got people out of work." Marshall doesn't have any estimates of feral cat populations, but he is not backing away from the premise of the bill. He said that since the introduction of the legislation, he has discussed the issue with several municipal animal control officers. "What we have been talking about is forming a working group to evaluate what measures are working and what measures are not working," he said. "I'm open to trying other methods .... I'm hopeful that something like that comes out of it." But, he said, "I'm not very optimistic. If this is the only means we have left, it's a regrettable move, but it's something we have to take."   More... Greyhound Injuries (September 7, 2009) Greyhound Injuries Hi Rhode Island greyhound advocates! Today, we released our report on injuries suffered by dogs racing in Texas. In 2008, there were nearly 350 injuries, and some dogs were injured repeatedly. Twenty dogs died while racing or were euthanized. Just as in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, Iowa and Arizona, the majority of injuries were broken legs but broken backs, and in this case ripped off toes, were not unheard of. Please go to the link below to see our report, and share it with others who might be able to help our efforts to reach every state with a campaign to end dog racing. Information is the key! http://grey2kusa.org/action/tx.html Thank you! Christine Christine A. Dorchak, Esq. President, GREY2K USA & GREY2K USA Education Fund P.O. Box 442117 Somerville, MA 02144 www.GREY2KUSA.org www.GREY2KUSAEDU.org www.VoteForTheDogs.org   More... Boycott Little Rhody Egg Farms in Foster: (September 7, 2009) Boycott Little Rhody Egg Farms in Foster: They are forcing hens to molt by starving them. Their retailers include Stop and Shop, Shaws, CVS, Walgreens, and convenience stores throughout Rhode Island. "Neither water nor food should be withdrawn to induce a cessation of egg production" in egg-laying hens -- American Veterinary Medical Association Please call Little Rhody Egg Farms in Foster and demand that they stop this practice at once: 401-397-3033 Defenders of Animals is calling for a boycott of Little Rhody Egg Farms and is joining with United Poultry Concerns and Rhode Island Vegan Awareness (RIVA) in support of stopping this practice. On August 12, 2009, UPC (United Poultry Concerns) President Karen Davis sent a letter to Little Rhody owner, Eli Berkowitz, urging him to feed his hens after learning that the company removes the hens' food to force them to lose 15 to 20 percent of their body weight. Mr. Berkowitz has declined to disclose how many days the hens sit in their cages with nothing to eat.   More... NO to Michael Vick Playing for any NFL Team (August 6, 2009) “Michael Vick, former Atlanta Falcons quarterback, is a disgrace to the human race, African Americans, and the National Football League. There is only one football team for him, and that is a prison team” –Dennis Tabella, Director of Defenders of Animals, Inc. Please see the comments from NFL teams. Teams That Don't Want Vick and Why: Aug. 2, New England Patriots: We already have Brady, owner says Aug. 1, Cleveland Browns: Eric Mangini just isn't interested July 30, Oakland Raiders: We like who we have, so let's move forward July 30, Tennessee Titans: Fisher pleased with quarterback situation July 30, Chicago Bears: We like this team that we have now July 29, Jacksonville Jaguars: Del Rio's answer is 'No.' July 28, St. Louis Rams: No, no, no. That's been beat to death. July 28, Dallas Cowboys: Jones likes his current stable of QBs July 28, Cincinnati Bengals: Already have 3 QBs, don’t need another July 28, Detroit Lions: We’re sticking by our well-paid rookie QB July 28, Buffalo Bills: We’re comfortable with our roster now July 28, Washington Redskins: Exec. VP says ‘no’ to Vick July 28, Miami Dolphins: We're deep at quarterback already July 28, Denver Broncos: McDaniels has no interest in Vick July 27, Seattle Seahawks: We haven't even discussed it July 20, New York Giants: On a lot of levels, no, Mara says July 20, New York Jets: We're good on quarterbacks June 12, Atlanta Falcons: They cut him, so they're obviously a no June 9, San Francisco 49ers: Not going down the Vick route   More... Airlines and Pet Deaths (August 1, 2009) (1) Total Reports: May 2005 - May 2009 Carrier Death Injury Loss Alaska Airlines 16 13 2 American Airlines 22 3 0 American Eagle 0 0 1 ATA Airlines 0 0 2 Atlantic Southeast 1 0 0 Comair 0 1 1 Continental Airlines 35 14 3 Delta Air Lines 12 0 11 Frontier Airlines 0 2 0 Hawaiian Airlines 3 4 1 Horizon Airlines 2 2 1 Midwest Airlines 3 1 0 Northwest Airlines 2 7 4 Pinancle Airlines 0 2 0 Shuttle America 1 0 1 SkyWest Airlines 1 2 0 Trans States 1 0 0 United Airlines 12 0 4 US Airways 1 1 1 Total 112 52 33 Of the deaths, 89 involved dogs, 17 involved cats, 3 involved birds, 1 involved a monkey, 1 involved a rat, and 1 involved a parrot. Of the injuries, 42 involved dogs and 10 involved cats. Of the losses, 8 involved dogs, 24 involved cats, and 1 involved a bird. In addition, 3 of the injured dogs were reported to have died of their injuries. Moreover, 2 of the lost dogs and 1 of the lost cats were reported to subsequently have been recovered, while 1 of the lost cats and 3 of the injured dogs were reported to subsequently have died. (2) Month-By-Month Reports: May 2005 - May 2009 DOT publishes redacted reports approximately one month after the conclusion of the month to which they apply; for example, the reports for incidents in May 2005 were published in the edition of the Air Travel Consumer Report published at the start of July 2005. The data in the following file is organized by the date of the incidents, and not the date of publication, with cumulative summaries for each calendar year. Month-By-Month Reports: May 2005-May 2009 (3) Carrier-By-Carrier Reports: May 2005 - May 2009 DOT publishes redacted reports approximately one month after the conclusion of the month to which they apply; for example, the reports for incidents in May 2005 were published in the edition of the Air Travel Consumer Report published at the start of July 2005. The data in the following file is organized by carrier and the date of the incidents, not the date of publication. Carrier-By-Carrier Reports: May 2005-May 2009 (4) U.S. Department of Agriculture Orders Although DOT is responsible for publishing the monthly reports of deaths, injuries, and losses, federal standards for the transportation of animals also are set by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service ("APHIS"), a division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. These standards are based on the Animal Welfare Act (7 U.S.C. § 2131, et seq.; “AWA”). APHIS has adopted regulations which generally require proper care for animals during transportation (including Title 9, Section 2.100 and Title 9, section 2.131 of the Code of federal Regulations). Further, APHIS has adopted specific regulations for the transportation of dogs and cats (Title 9, Section 3.13 - 3.19 of the Code of Federal Regulations); guinea pigs and hamsters (Title 9, Section 3.35 - 3.41 of the Code of Federal Regulations); rabbits (Title 9, Section 3.60 - 3.66 of the Code of Federal Regulations); nonhuman primates (Title 9, Section 3.86 - 3.92 of the Code of Federal Regulations); marine mammals (Title 9, Section 3.112 - 3.118 of the Code of Federal Regulations); and other animals (Title 9, Section 3.136 - 3.142 of the Code of Federal Regulations). USDA has sanctioned various air carriers for violations of the Animal Welfare Act. Only one order appears to have been issued that concerned an incident which occurred after DOT’s reporting requirements entered into effect. (Additionally, not all of the earlier incidents necessarily would have been reportable even if the current DOT reporting requirements were in effect - i.e., shipments of animals by dealers). A list of air carrier-related USDA orders since 1987 follows, with summaries of selected orders. U.S. Department of Agriculture Orders   More... RI Legislation Supported by Defenders of Animals (July 25, 2009) Legislation Supported by Defenders of Animals S-0023-Ban on Keeping Dogs out 24/7 without proper shelter, food, or water, introduced by Senator John J. Tassoni, D-Smithfield. H-6135- Ban on Keeping Dogs out 24/7 without proper shelter, food, or water, introduced by Rep. Amy Rice S-0024, adds Defenders of Animals or its designee to the Vicious Dog Panel, introduced by Sen. John Tassoni. S-0454, introduced by Sen. John J. Tassoni expands the scope of unnecessary cruelty to animals. S-0109 introduced by Sen. Rhoda Perry prohibits the hunting of mourning doves. S-0110 introduced by Sen. Miller would prohibit the hunting of wild birds along the west shore of the Providence River from Gaspee Point to Fields Point. H-5374 Introduced by Rep. Patricia Serpa of West Warwick would provide training and certification of animal control officers through a process set up by RIDEM and Defenders of Animals. H-6041 Introduced by Rep. Patricia Serpa the bill calls for adding Defenders of Animals or its designee to the Vicious Dog Panel, H-6133 introduced by Rep. Rod Driver of Richmond would prohibit the cruel confinement of farm animals in a manner that does not allow them to turn around freely, lie down, stand up, and fully extend their limbs.) H-5248 introduced by Rep. Joseph McNamara would prohibit the hunting of wild birds along the west shore of the Providence River from Gaspee Point to Fields Point.)   More... Rally to Stop Greyhound Racing in Rhode Island (July 18, 2009) http://www.wpri.com/dpp/news/local_news/local_wpri_rally_to_end_greyhound_racing_20090718 Rally to stop greyhound racing in RI Rally held at State House Updated: Saturday, 18 Jul 2009, 11:52 AM EDT Published : Saturday, 18 Jul 2009, 11:52 AM EDT Stephanie Lane PROVIDENCE, RI (WPRI) - A rally is underway at the State House in attempt to end Greyhound Racing in Rhode Island. The rally consists of members from GREY2K USA, Defenders of Animals, VSA, the Humane Association of Northwestern RI, and the West Warwick Angels. The rally is in attempt to stop Rhode Island legislators who want to override the Governor's veto; the veto would end Greyhound Racing in the state in August. Copyright WPRI   More... Emergency Foster Home and Donations Needed (April 16, 2009) Donations & Foster Home needed Meet Aubrey the superstar! Aubrey is a 14-year old chocolate lab with an absolutely endearing personality and a tail that always wags. Gloomy day? Aubrey will gladly cheer you up and give you a paw. Of course she will expect one (or two, three or five…) of her special treats in return! Aubrey has spent a few days with a local veterinarian who’s given her lots of water, food, love and medical care which resulted in her gaining 4 lbs! Yeeaah Aubrey! It turns out that Aubrey has severe diabetes. Lack of treatment has resulted in her emaciated condition-when rescued she was 32 lbs.-not at all a dignified weight for this special lady! Aubrey had a big car ride to another veterinarian where she will be monitored and have additional tests. Aubrey’s stay at the local veterinarian was paid for by local animal control and all future costs will be the responsibility of Defenders of Animals, so GUESS WHAT? Aubrey is unable to hold down even a part time job right now so she is asking for your financial support. She on insulin treatment, antibiotics and will be having additional testing because the vet suspects she has other medical conditions. She may need an ultrasound, other expensive tests and possible specialty care depending on additional diagnoses. All Aubrey’s veterinarians have given us generous discounts (THANK YOU!!) but we need to raise money to cover her care and testing which may run into the thousands of dollars. Foster home needed: We are also looking for an extraspecial foster home for Aubrey. Aubrey can not have vaccinations in her weakened state so she can not be with other animals. Foster parent qualifications will include: familiarity with needles, injecting insulin, the disease of diabetes and signs of hypoglycemia, ability to provide specialty care such as sub-q fluids if necessary. We would prefer to place Aubrey in a home where someone will be home most of the day to monitor her. She requires very frequent bathroom breaks as well. Note: We are unable to release details of Aubrey’s history at this time for legal reasons. Telephone (401) 461-1922 email: dennis@defendersofanimals.org Contributions may be sent to: Defenders of Animals P.O. Box 5634 Weybosset Hill Station Providence, RI 02903-0634  More... Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic to be held (February 21, 2009) A cat Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Clinic will be held on Friday, March 27, 2009. The clinic on that day is in cooperation with the Humane Association of Northwestern RI, the SNYPP Clinic, and Defenders of Animals, Inc. SNYPP Clinic 9 Church Street Pascoag, RI 02859 Cost: $65 per cat, which would include rabies and distemper shots and a check up. By appointment only!!! Please contact Defenders of Animals, Inc., at 401-461-1922 or by email dennis@defendersofanimals.org   More... Animal Cruelty in Providence (September 21, 2008) http://www.abc6.com/news/featurestory/28635234.html You may wish to comment on this story at ABC 6 link. The film footage came to Defenders of Animals and was turned over to ABC 6. There are a number of issues regarding this story. There are numerous cats missing from the area, there is a question as to how these ducks were obtained, and there is certainly a problem with the way that they were slaughtered. This was not the first related incident involving animals at this address. I think that Anchor/Reporter, Paul Mueller, and ABC 6 did a great job in exposing this inhumane and illegal practice   More... RI Dog Killer Is Sentenced (July 18, 2008) RI Dog Killer Is Sentenced Defenders of Animals submitted a Community Impact Statement in accordance with Title 12, Criminal Procedure, Chapter 12-28 Victim’s Rights, Section 12-28-4, which was read in the court room by Judge Stephen P. Nugent and pointed out by Special Assistant Attorney General Mark Trovato. Defenders of Animals respectfully requested the Court to sentence Edgar Goulet to the maximum sentence of two years for shooting and killing his pit-bull type dog. Special Assistant Attorney General Mark Trovato was the prosecutor in the case. Having sat through the new trial request by Mr. Goulet and the sentencing for over four hours today, I can tell you that Special Assistant Attorney General Mark Trovato from the RI Attorney General’s Office did a tremendous job presenting the evidence against Mr. Edgar Goulet. “Judge Stephen P. Nugent gave Edgar Goulet, 60, two years in prison for maliciously killing the dog, Sparky, after it ran away from him two years ago. He sentenced Goulet to 10 years, with two to serve concurrently with the first count, for possession of a sawed-off shotgun that police found tucked under his couch cushions. The remaining eight years would be suspended with probation. "There is no doubt in this court's mind this defendant is a danger to the community," Nugent said. Goulet has been held at the Adult Correctional Institutions since a Washington County Superior Court jury found him guilty of both counts in May. The judge rejected a motion for a new trial before sentencing.” You may want to consider sending a thank you to Judge Stephen P. Nugent McGrath Judicial Complex 4800 Tower Hill Road Wakefield, RI 02879 And Attorney General Patrick Lynch CC: Special Assistant Attorney General Mark Trovato 150 South Main Street Providence, RI 02903 You may also want to thank Heidi Eklund, the neighbor, who called the police when the incident happened. Heidi and her mom put themselves at great risk in order to see justice done. I would be glad to forward an email to Heidi at your request. Justice was served today. In addition, the Judge ordered that the numerous weapons and ammunition be seized from Mr. Goulet’s property.   More... 30th ANNIVERSARY of Defenders of Animals (June 7, 2008) http://www.rilin.state.ri.us//BillText08/SenateText08/S3075.pdf 2008 -- S 3075 http://www.rilin.state.ri.us/BillText08/HouseText08/H8343.pdf ======= LC03031 ======= S T A T E O F R H O D E I S L A N D IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2008 ____________ S E N A T E R E S O L U T I O N CONGRATULATING DEFENDERS OF ANIMALS, A NON-PROFIT ANIMAL ADVOCACY ORGANIZATION, ON THE OCCASION OF ITS 30TH ANNIVERSARY Introduced By: Senators Tassoni, Felag, Walaska, Bates, and Gallo Date Introduced: June 05, 2008 Referred To: Recommended for Immediate Consideration WHEREAS, Dennis and Patricia Tabella, inspired by the good works of Cleveland 1 Armory's group, the Fund for Animals in New York, and a childhood cat named Wishy, began a 2 30 year journey of caring for and defending the rights of animals. In April of 1978, they founded 3 Defenders of Animals, a non-profit organization whose mission statement is "To defend the 4 inalienable rights of both companion animals and wildlife through education, legal and legislative 5 activism"; and 6 WHEREAS, Defenders of Animals has spearheaded the humane movement in the state of 7 Rhode Island. Through the tireless perseverance of its founders, Dennis and Patricia Tabella, 8 countless dedicated members, and dedicated legislators, the organization has fought for 20 years 9 to end the barbaric practice of killing animals by using carbon monoxide. They succeeded on 10 July 13, 2005 in accomplishing this monumental goal, sparing dogs and cats from tortuous 11 deaths. In addition, Defenders of Animals contributed to the passage of numerous pieces of 12 legislation such as the Puppy Lemon Law, Dog Protection Bill and Cat Permit Program; and 13 WHEREAS, Over the last 30 years, Defenders of Animals, without compensation, has 14 advocated for the rights of both wild and domesticated creatures. Such advocacy involved: 15 helping to rescue Fanny the elephant, who was chained to a windowless barn at the Slater Park 16 Zoo; ending illegal practices such as jacklighting deer on Block Island; snapping the necks of 17 female swans in Middletown; and importing snowshoe hares from Canada for the purposes of 18 canned hunting and geese hunting. Other measures were taken to stop the killing of mourning 19 2 doves, prevent the destruction of the state's otters, and end the annual practice of hunting sharks, 1 antelope and raccoons. Additionally, Defenders of Animals brought to light the cruelty of 2 leghold traps which injured innocent creatures including Gideon, a cat who was featured on 3 NBC/TV 10 after having his leg amputated, and Whitey the cat who almost had his tail amputated 4 due to a leghold trap; and 5 WHEREAS, Defenders of Animals offers rewards of up to $2,000 for information 6 leading to the apprehension and conviction of persons who commit crimes of cruelty including 7 the clubbing and stabbing of three deer off Patience Island, poisoning cats in Bristol, leaving a 8 Beagle in its cage to starve to death in North Kingstown, and an oil-soaked cat being burned in 9 Ashaway; and 10 WHEREAS, The US Fish and Wildlife Service consulted with Defenders of Animals on 11 the master plan for Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge in South Kingstown which resulted in 12 the protection of the piping plover and other wildlife; and 13 WHEREAS, In 1979, Defenders of Animals was awarded a contract to operate a no-kill 14 shelter at the East Providence Animal Shelter, which resulted in over 1,000 dogs and cats finding 15 homes, and no healthy pets having to be destroyed; and 16 WHEREAS, In addition to the previously mentioned acts of compassion, Defenders of 17 Animals dedicates the majority of its resources to placing homeless pets in loving homes and 18 eliminating the reproduction of homeless cats and dogs by bringing in spay/neuter veterinary 19 services to communities statewide at low or no cost to pet owners; and 20 WHEREAS, Defenders of Animals seeks to keep the plight of animals in the public eye 21 and celebrate the souls of all innocent creatures by holding annual events such as the Homeless 22 Animals Day and an annual Candlelight Vigil; now, therefore be it 23 RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations 24 hereby congratulates Defenders of Animals and honors its founders Dennis and Patricia Tabella 25 for 30 years of volunteerism and personal sacrifice on behalf of innocent creatures; and be it 26 further 27 RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to 28 transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Defenders of Animals' founders Dennis and 29 Patricia Tabella. 30 ======= LC03031 =======   More... Dogs left out 24/7......Now is your chance to stop it. (May 12, 2008) Dogs left out 24/7......Now is your chance to stop it. Next Wednesday...Please be at the state house in Room 211 between 4-4:30PM. Please sign in as (pro) for bill S-2096. You can speak on behalf of all the dogs that have been left out in the freezing weather all these years with no protection or you can at least sign in favor and not speak, but please be there. Forget about the emails...forget about the phone calls.....we need you at the hearing.... Please forward the information to your email list. Senate Bill No.2096 BY Tassoni, Sosnowski, Fogarty P, Issa ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- DOGS {LC745/1} 01/15/2008 Introduced, referred to Senate Constitutional and Regulatory Issues 04/02/2008 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration 04/02/2008 Committee recommended measure be held for further study 05/14/2008 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration SENATE COMMITTEE ON CONSTITUTIONAL & REGULATORY ISSUES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTICE OF MEETING DATE: Wednesday, May 14, 2008 TIME: Rise of the Senate PLACE: Room 211 - State House   More... How Could You? (May 5, 2008) Submitted by Mike Butts, Famous Radio Personality and Member of Defenders of Animals, Inc. HOW COULD YOU? By Jim Willis, 2001 When I was a puppy, I entertained you with my antics and made you laugh. You called me your child, and despite a number of chewed shoes and a couple of murdered throw pillows, I became your best friend. Whenever I was 'bad,' you'd shake your finger at me and ask 'How could you?' -- but then you'd relent and roll me over for a belly-rub. My housebreaking took a little longer than expected, because you were terribly busy, but we worked on that together. I remember those nights of nuzzling you in bed and listening to your confidences and secret dreams, and I believed that life could not be any more perfect. We went for long walks and runs in the park, car rides, stops for ice cream (I only got the cone because 'ice cream is bad for dogs' you said), and I took long naps in the sun waiting for you to come home at the end of the day. Gradually, you began spending more time at work and on your career, and more time searching for a human mate. I waited for you patiently, comforted you through heartbreaks and disappointments, never chided you about bad decisions, and romped with glee at your homecomings, and when you fell in love. She, now your wife, is not a 'dog person' -- still I welcomed her into our home, tried to show her affection, and obeyed her. I was happy because you were happy. Then the human babies came along and I shared your excitement. I was fascinated by their pinkness, how they smelled, and I wanted to mother them, too. Only she and you worried that I might hurt them, and I spent most of my time banished to another room, or to a dog crate. Oh, how I wanted to love them, but I became a prisoner of love. As they began to grow, I became their friend. They clung to my fur and pulled themselves up on wobbly legs, poked fingers in my eyes, investigated my ears and gave me kisses on my nose. I loved everything about them and their touch -- because your touch was now so infrequent -- and I would've defended them with my life if need be. I would sneak into their beds and listen to their worries and secret dreams, and together we waited for the sound of your car in the driveway. There had been a time, when others asked you if you had a dog, that you produced a photo of me from your wallet and told them stories about me. These past few years, you just answered 'yes' and changed the subject. I had gone from being 'your dog' to 'just a dog,' and you resented every expenditure on my behalf. Now, you have a new career opportunity in another city, and you and they will be moving to an apartment that does not allow pets. You've made the right decision for your 'family,' but there was a time when I was your only family. I was excited about the car ride until we arrived at the animal shelter. It smelled of dogs and cats, of fear, of hopelessness. You filled out the paperwork and said 'I know you will find a good home for her.' They shrugged and gave you a pained look. They understand the realities facing a middle-aged dog, even one with 'papers. You had to pry your son's fingers loose from my collar as he screamed 'No, Daddy! Please don't let them take my dog!' And I worried for him, and what lessons you had just taught him about friendship and loyalty, about love and responsibility, and about respect for all life. You gave me a good-bye pat on the head, avoided my eyes, and politely refused to take my collar and leash with you. You had a deadline to meet and now I have one, too. After you left, the two nice ladies said you probably knew about your upcoming move months ago and made no attempt to find me another good home. They shook their heads and asked, 'How could you?' They are as attentive to us here in the shelter as their busy schedules allow. They feed us, of course, but I lost my appetite days ago. At first, whenever anyone passed my pen, I rushed to the front, hoping it was you that you had changed your mind -- that this was all a bad dream... or I hoped it would at least be someone who cared, anyone who might save me. When I realized I could not compete with the frolicking for attention of happy puppies, oblivious to their own fate, I retreated to a far corner and waited. I heard her footsteps as she came for me at the end of the day, and I padded along the aisle after her to a separate room. A blissfully quiet room. She placed me on the table and rubbed my ears, and told me not to worry. My heart pounded in anticipation of what was to come, but there was also a sense of relief. The prisoner of love had run out of days. As is my nature, I was more concerned about her. The burden which she bears weighs heavily on her, and I know that, the same way I knew your every mood. She gently placed a tourniquet around my foreleg as a tear ran down her cheek. I licked her hand in the same way I used to comfort you so many years ago. She expertly slid the hypodermic needle into my vein. As I felt the sting and the cool liquid coursing through my body, I lay down sleepily, looked into her kind eyes and murmured 'How could you?' Perhaps because she understood my dog-speak, she said 'I'm so sorry. She hugged me, and hurriedly explained it was her job to make sure I went to a better place, where I wouldn't be ignored or abused or abandoned, or have to fend for myself -- a place of love and light so very different from this earthly place. And with my last bit of energy, I tried to convey to her with a thump of my tail that my 'How could you?' was not directed at her. It was directed at you, My Beloved Master, I was thinking of you. I will think of you and wait for you forever. May everyone in your life continue to show you so much loyalty. A Note from the Author: If 'How Could You?' brought tears to your eyes as you read it, as it did to mine as I wrote it, it is because it is the composite story of the millions of formerly 'owned' pets who die each year in American & Canadian animal shelters. Please use this to help educate, on your websites, in newsletters, on animal shelter and vet office bulletin boards. Tell the public that the decision to add a pet to the family is an important one for life, that animals deserve our love and sensible care, that finding another appropriate home for your animal is your responsibility and any local humane society or animal welfare league can offer you good advice, and that all life is precious.   More... Animals are suffering in Smithfield shelter (3/20/08) 3/20/2008 Humane group: Animals are suffering in Smithfield shelter By GERRY GOLDSTEIN, Valley Breeze & Observer Correspondent Chief McGarry denies charges SMITHFIELD - Alleging that animals at the town shelter are being subjected to mistreatment ranging from lack of medical attention to starvation, a group of volunteers and shelter fund-raisers is seeking a Town Council investigation. Their charges, which they have detailed in written presentations given to council members Tuesday - but too late for inclusion on that night's meeting agenda - drew strong rebuttals from Police Chief William A. McGarry, whose department runs the shelter, and Deputy Chief Richard P. St. Sauveur Jr., who oversees the operation. But the volunteers, who say they have stopped working at the shelter because they felt intimidated and unwelcome there, cite a litany of abuse. They say that sick animals are left in filthy bedding, go without veterinary attention sometimes to the point of near death, and suffer from general inattention. Additionally, a group that over the last six years has raised more than $43,000 to help shelter animals - at events such as rummage sales and spaghetti suppers - says that the Police Department now refuses to accept any of the money they raise, much of it offered to assure veterinary services. In fact, some of the shelter critics say they have had to resort to subterfuge, pretending to walk sick or emaciated dogs, while in reality taking them to the vet. Deputy Chief St. Sauveur confirms that his department does not accept the privately raised money, saying he has been assured by the town manager that if supplemental money is ever needed for animal care, it will be supplied. He termed the two shelter employees, Animal Control Warden Thomas Taylor and assistant Robert Salisbury, "professional and hard-working. They are very caring individuals when it comes to the needs of the animals at the shelter." St. Sauveur said that he has been reviewing shelter operations for months, sometimes with unannounced inspections, and that while he has recommended some minor changes he has concluded that "the animals are well-fed, well cared for, and are provided with adequate food, water and medical care." Not so, says Judy E. Chase, founder and past president of Smithfield's Animal Shelter Aid Program (ASAP), the registered, tax-exempt charity that has raised money for animal care. She says that relations with the shelter deteriorated so badly that "volunteers have smuggled food into the shelter . . . and they have taken literally hundreds of sick animals to the vet's," quietly paying the bills with aid program money despite the police department's ban on accepting it.¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ Bethany Mott, a volunteer who is head of circulation at the East Smithfield Public Library, says her three years of volunteering at the shelter, from 2002 to 2005, were filled with anxiety and pity for animals that she felt were ill-cared for. "I was welcome there as long as I didn't make a fuss or speak up for the animals," she said. She said she was often told, when complaining about animal needs, that the town couldn't afford what she suggested. She said it was her experience that animals "hardly ever got veterinary care, even with open wounds." "It was obvious cruelty," she said, adding that she saw three days' accumulation of feces in dog runs, mold in dog food, and maggots. "I could do nothing about it because if I spoke up I would be asked to leave," she said. Another volunteer, Nicole Waybright, a mechanical engineer and former Navy officer who is fluent in Spanish and now runs a home business translating technical documents for international companies, supplied The Breeze & Observer with a list of incidents among many that she says she witnessed at the shelter. These include instances where sick or injured animals were allegedly left in enclosures full of urine and feces, with food containers out of reach. She contends also that medications were not given properly, that illnesses were not adequately evaluated, and that she and other volunteers personally witnessed "examples of animals being left in cages to die of starvation, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and general lack of care."¬ Waybright says the shelter, at 3 Spragueville Road, off Pleasant View Avenue behind the Public Works garage, averages three to four dogs and five to six cats at any given time. Springtime brings a flood of kittens. The volunteers said they are going public because although they were told last summer that St. Sauveur was investigating, they have been unsuccessful in obtaining any report from him. They also allege bad relations with Chief McGarry that stem from the group's support several years ago of a bill, eventually passed, that eliminated animal gas chambers in Rhode Island, including Smithfield's. McGarry said he disagreed with the bill's provisions, but characterized the accusation of a grudge as "absolutely untrue and unwarranted. That's really unfair to me - I'm not that kind of guy." He said despite his personal opposition, "That was a state law, and we honor state laws." Deputy Chief St. Sauveur told the newspaper he feels that the volunteers' dissatisfaction is rooted in their desire to see more done for animals than a shelter is designed to provide, and that sometimes they insist on a level of care beyond shelter capabilities. "This is a temporary facility, and while animals are here they are adequately cared for," he said, adding of the allegations, "I have not observed such things, and the staff cares far too much for these things to occur." Waybright's e-mail communication with St. Sauveur over a period of months last year and this year show a continuing concern over additional issues: * No specific item in the town budget for animal medical expenses. * No outside expert such as a veterinary technician to be responsible for periodic visits to manage medication. * "Needless suffering" from such maladies as untreated urinary blockages and massive infections. * No concrete plan for emergency veterinary services at odd hours when local vet offices are closed. Both the police chief and deputy chief said the issue boils down to one of control: whether members of their department or the volunteers are going to exert authority at the shelter. ¬ Meanwhile, the complaints have caught the attention of Smithfield Democratic state Sen. John J. Tassoni Jr., who was largely responsible for the law banning gas chambers in favor of lethal injection. Tassoni said he does not know at this point if the charges are valid, but he told The Breeze & Observer the Town Council "should take this seriously." Noting that he, himself, has contributed money to ASAP, Tassone questioned why the shelter is refusing donations from dedicated residents, especially in a time when the municipal budget is tight. "This is very upsetting to me," he said. "My hope is that all the allegations are false, but if, in fact, they are true, the Town Council needs to step up to the plate and put the appropriate people in charge of that shelter." Council members on Tuesday had no time to read the volunteers' reports and they were not discussed, especially since the state's open meetings law requires agenda items to be posted several days in advance of meeting times. Waybright said the volunteers will ask the council to put their concerns on the agenda for its next meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, April 1, at 7 p.m. in Town Hall. - Reach Gerry Goldstein at Gerry76@cox.net.¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬   More... How you can help to pass pro animal bills (February 19, 2008) Please contact the members of the HEW Committee (listed below). Ask them to support these bill being heard on Wednesday, February 27. Our Animal Friends Need as many people as possible at these hearings on Wednesday, February 27. It's imperative that there be support for these bills!!!!! Please plan to attend and record your name as in favor of these bills. (4:15-4:30 PM). Do you want to stop animals from being tied out in bad weather? Are you in favor of mandatory spay/neuter of cats (over 3,000 animals are destroyed each year in Rhode Island) Do you want the court to issue protective orders for animals regarding domestic violence? Do you want mandatory jail time for people involved in dog fighting? If so, you have to be there Wednesday, February 27. IT'S ALL ON THE LINE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HOUSE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, EDUCATION & WELFARE -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- NOTICE OF MEETING DATE: Wednesday, February 27, 2008 TIME: Rise of the House PLACE: Room 135 - State House SCHEDULED FOR HEARING AND/OR CONSIDERATION House Bill No. 7284 BY Serpa, Gallison, Silva, Lewiss, Fellela ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- DOGS {LC746} (prohibit any person from keeping a dog tethered, penned, caged, fenced or confined outside for more than thirty minutes when the temp is beyond the weather safety scale without access to outdoor housing) 01/29/08 Introduced, referred to House H.E.W. 02/27/08 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration House Bill No. 7354 BY Fellela, Serpa, Carter ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY - PERMIT PROGRAM FOR CATS {LC685} (provide that when a cat or kitten is offered for sale or adoption, the person so doing, either has to spay or neuter the cat or kitten prior to the adoption or sale or provide a spay or neuter prepaid certificate) 02/05/08 Introduced, referred to House H.E.W. 02/27/08 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration House Bill No. 7169 BY Lima, Baldelli-Hunt ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- CRUELTY TO ANIMALS {LC757} (require a court to issue animal protective orders against persons found guilty of abusing animals) 01/22/08 Introduced, referred to House H.E.W. 02/27/08 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration House Bill No. 7212 BY Lima, Coderre E, Serpa, Lewiss, Almeida ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- CRUELTY TO ANIMALS {LC890} (provide for judicia l discretion regarding incarceration for convictions related to animal fighting) 01/23/08 Introduced, referred to House H.E.W. 02/27/08 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration Robert Johnson Committee Clerk 222-2296 POSTED: FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2008, 09:23 AM PLEASE CALL DEFENDERS OF ANIMALS AT 738-3710 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS. Representative Representative Lisa Baldelli-Hunt · CONTACT INFORMATION: 304 Prospect Street Woonsocket, RI 02895 rep-baldellihunt@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Steven John Coaty CONTACT INFORMATION: P.O. Box 1293Newport, RI 02840-3353 Tel: 401-848-7227 Email: rep-coaty@rilin.state.ri.us rep-oaty@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Grace Diaz CONTACT: 45 Adelaide Avenue Providence, RI 0290 (401) 575-3641 rep-diaz@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Deborah A. Fellela · CONTACT INFORMATION: 3 Diaz Street Johnston, RI 02919 rep-fellela@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Frank Ferri 38 Lippitt Avenue Warwick, RI 02889 Phone: 401-737-5113 rep-ferri@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Robert E. Flaherty · CONTACT INFORMATION: 936 Buttonwoods Avenue Warwick, RI 02886 (401) 781-7200 rep-flaherty@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Arthur Handy · 26 Welfare Avenue Cranston, RI 02910 (401) 785-8996 rep-handy@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Joseph M. McNamara · Chairperson, Health, Education & Welfare · CONTACT INFORMATION: 23 Howie Avenue Warwick, RI 02888 (401)941-8319 rep-mcnamara@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Patricia A. Serpa · CONTACT INFORMATION: 194 Kimberly Lane West Warwick, RI 02893 rep-serpa@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Agostinho F. Silva · CONTACT INFORMATION: 82 Ledge Street, 1st Floor Central Falls, RI 02863 rep-silva@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Susan A. Story · CONTACT INFORMATION: 26 Broadview Drive Barrington, RI 02806 (401)245-5083 rep-story@rilin.state.ri.us Peter N. Wasylyk Hoe21 Obediah Brown Road Providence, RI 02909 (401)831-7730 rep-wasylyk@rilin.state.ri.us Representative Thomas Winfield · CONTACT INFORMATION: 2 Church Street Smithfield, RI 02828 (401) 949-3356 rep-winfield@rilin.state.ri.us   More... Legislation to date for 2008 (Tuesday, January 22, 2008) Pro animal bills introduced to date for 2008 in Rhode Island.We will need support from you to get these bills passed in the Senate and the House. Please let us know that you would be willing to send out emails, make a couple of calls, write letters and be at the hearings when they are scheduled. Defenders of Animals is supporting the following bills: S-2030 By Tassoni, Maselli, Doyle, McBurney This Act would provide for mandatory imprisonment for convictions related to animal fighting. http:www.rilin.state.ri.us//BillText08/SenateText08/S2030.pdf S-2025 BY Tassoni, Maselli, Goodwin, Doyle, McBurney This Act would require training for new law enforcement officers to include techniques to aid investigating officers to become aware of incidents of crimes of domestic violence and other abuse crimes and how to react and investigate them. Those crimes would include child abuse, elder abuse, and cruelty to animals. http://www.rilin.state.ri.us//BillText08/SenateText08/S2025.pdf S- 2019 BY Tassoni, Maselli, Goodwin, Doyle, McBurney This Act would require a court to issue animal protective orders against persons found guilty of abusing animals. This Act would also allow an agent of the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals or a Municipal animal control officer to petition the district or superior court to have any animal confiscated and forfeited that is possessed by a person found guilty of animal abuse. http://www.rilin.state.ri.us//BillText08/SenateText08/S2019.pdf S-2008 BY Tassoni, McBurney, Doyle This Act would increase the various penalties related to animal cruelty. http://www.rilin.state.ri.us//BillText08/SenateText08/S2008.pdf Senate Bill No.2043 BY Tassoni, Doyle, McBurney, Felag ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- REGULATION OF VICIOUS DOGS (add the director of the defenders of animals or his or her designee to the hearing panel which decides whether a dog should be declared vicious) {LC71/1} 01/10/2008 Introduced, referred to Senate Constitutional and Regulatory Issues Senate Bill No.2096 BY Tassoni, Sosnowski, Fogarty P, Issa ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- DOGS (provide guidelines and penalties for any person that keeps a dog outside tethered, penned, caged, fenced or otherwise confined without adequate shelter from the elements) {LC745/1} 01/15/2008 Introduced, referred to Senate Constitutional and Regulatory Issues Senate Bill No.2097 BY Tassoni, Ciccone, Jabour, Maselli ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY - PERMIT PROGRAM FOR CATS (provide that when a cat or kitten is offered for sale or adoption, the person so doing, either has to spay or neuter the cat or kitten prior to the adoption or sale or provide a spay or neuter prepaid certificate) {LC538/1} 01/15/2008 Introduced, referred to Senate Constitutional and Regulatory Issues Senate Bill No.2101 BY Tassoni, Issa, Perry, McBurney ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- DOGS (prohibit any person from keeping a dog tethered/penned/caged/fenced/confined outside for 30 minutes when the temperature is beyond the weather safety scale without access to an outdoor housing facility) {LC539/1} 01/22/2008 Introduced, referred to Senate Constitutional and Regulatory Issues House Bill No.7169 BY Lima, Baldelli-Hunt ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO ANIMALS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY -- CRUELTY TO ANIMALS (require a court to issue animal protective orders against persons found guilty of abusing animals) {LC757/1} 01/22/2008 Introduced, referred to House H.E.W. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------   More... Animal Fighting Legislation in Rhode Island (Sunday, December 16, 2007) 12-13-07 Sen. Tassoni bills target animal fighting, animal abuse STATE HOUSE - High profile as it is, the Michael Vick case is not unique. Animal fighting, specifically, and animal cruelty in general is an unfortunate but persistent part of human activity. Sen. John J. Tassoni Jr. (D-Dist. 22, Smithfield, North Smithfield) is sickened by animal abuse and animal abusers and has spent years in the General Assembly fighting it through new and stronger laws. Among his achievements is the 2006 law that established a breeder permit program for cats, featuring a spay/neuter program to control the cat population in the state and prevent the euthanization of thousands of malnourished and ill feral cats. This year, Senator Tassoni has prefiled three bills to be taken up during the 2008 session that add more protections for animals from abuse and neglect, including one bill calling for higher fines and imprisonment for convictions related to animal fighting. "Michael Vick (Atlanta Falcons ex-quarterback) is getting lots of media attention, but it's the mistreatment to the animals that cannot be overlooked," said Senator Tassoni. "Protecting animals from abuse and neglect is not just about punishing abusers but also about enacting laws to extend the kind of humane treatment animals deserve." While animal fighting, owning fighting animals and attending animal fights is already outlawed in Rhode Island, Senator Tassoni's bill would make imprisonment for violations mandatory, not an option as currently provided by law. The imprisonment would still be for a period of up to two years. In addition, fines for anyone convicted of staging, promoting or betting on bird, dog or animal fights would be increased, with the minimum fine rising from $1,000 to $2,500 and the maximum fine increasing from $5,000 to $10,000. "This kind of activity is nothing short of barbaric," said Senator Tassoni. "The penalties associated with it should be severe." Another bill prefiled by Senator Tassoni for consideration when the General Assembly convenes in January would establish a new section of state statute, requiring the courts to issue animal protective orders against persons found guilty of animal abuse. The bill would also allow an agent of the Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals or a municipal animal control officer to petition the district or superior court to confiscate any animal owned by a person guilty of abuse. The final bill would increase various penalties related to animal cruelty. Basic fines for those guilty of mistreatment or neglect, which are now $50 to $500, would grow to a range of $100 to $1,000. Anyone guilty of malicious injury to or of killing animals would face a mandatory two-year jail sentence, a fine of up to $2,00 and a total of 50 hours of community restitution. Anyone guilty of violating current registration and filing procedures for animal research would face a $1,000 fine, up from the current $500. "There must be accountability and punishment that fits the crime in cases where a pet or any other animal is neglected, abused, tortured or killed," said Senator Tassoni. "Pets and other animals have little or no defense, and it's our job to protect them." For more information: Contact Randall T. Szyba, Publicist State House Room 20 Providence, RI 02903 (401) 222-2457 These bills are supported by Defenders of Animals, Inc.  More... BOYCOTT WAL-Mart (December 7, 2007) Boycott Wal-Mart WJAR-TV Friday, December 7, 2007 COVENTRY, R.I. - A Wal-Mart employee accused the Coventry store of animal cruelty after she said management hired someone to shoot birds that fly into the building. The woman, who did not want to be identified, works part time at the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Coventry. She said she's seen it happen three times in the two years she's been working there. "It's inhumane for them to kill these birds the way they're doing it," the woman said. The store manager told NBC 10 that an outside contractor was hired to eliminate a problem with birds, but did not confirm if the birds were shot. The employee said she felt compelled to draw attention to the way the giant retailer gets rid of birds that fly into its store. "They actually have a gentleman come into the store and shoot them down with a BB gun," she said. "They are putting them to their death." NBC 10 tried to contact the company that Wal-Mart said it uses to eliminate the birds but did not get a response. The employee said she and other associates at the store have voiced their concerns to management. "They said they're trying to do everything, and we feel that they're not doing enough," she said. Jami Lamontagne, a Wal-Mart spokeswoman, issued a statement that said in part, "We do our best to remove animals from our stores in a safe and timely manner. With 127 million customers coming through our door each week, our doors are opened frequently and sometimes a bird might happen to fly in." Lamontagne continued to say that, "Wal-Mart strives to comply with all rules and regulations regarding animal treatment and will attempt to humanely shoo the birds back out the doors." Dennis Tabella of the Defenders of Animals called for people to boycott Wal-Mart during the holidays because of its treatment of the birds. "We think it's dangerous," he said. "We think there are many other humane alternatives that the store could be using to chase away the birds." The employee agreed. "If they could get some kind of netting system or anything," she said.   More... “RI DEM’s position on Bird Poisoning predictable and wrong states animal control group.” (July 28, 2008) New England Pest Control using Avitrol to kill birds  More... state-wide boycott of New England Pest Control (July 28, 2007) News Release For Immediate Release July 19, 2007 Animal Rights Group calls for extermination of the Big Blue Bug by way of state-wide boycott of New England Pest Control for killing birds in Lincoln.  More... Victory in RI Senate for Companion Animals (May 22, 2007) Please see copy of the bill below: Senate Bill No.463 SUB A BY Perry, Sosnowski, Miller, Tassoni, Alves ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- COURTS (permit the district court or the family court, in instances where domestic violence is alleged, to include in any orders provisions for the care, custody and control of any companion animal) {LC1925/2/A} 02/13/2007 Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary 03/13/2007 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration 03/13/2007 Committee recommended measure be held for further study 04/26/2007 Scheduled for consideration 04/26/2007 Committee recommends passage of Sub A 05/16/2007 Placed on Senate Calendar 05/22/2007 Senate passed Sub A 2007 -- S 0463 SUBSTITUTE A ======= LC01925/SUB A/2 ======= S T A T E O F R H O D E I S L A N D IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2007 ____________ A N A C T RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- COURTS Introduced By: Senators Perry, Sosnowski, Miller, Tassoni, and Alves Date Introduced: February 13, 2007 Referred To: Senate Judiciary It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows: SECTION 1. Section 15-15-6 of the General Laws in Chapter 15-1 15 entitled "Domestic 2 Abuse Prevention" is hereby amended to read as follows: 3 15-15-6. Form of complaint. -- 4 (a) A form in substantially the following language shall suffice for the purpose of filing a 5 complaint under this chapter: 6 7 STATE OF RHODE ISLAND FAMILY COURT 8 COUNTY OF ________________________ 9 ______________________________________: 10 Plaintiff: 11 VS. : F.C.NO. 12 _______________________________________________________________ ________: 13 ______________________________________: 14 Defendant: 15 16 COMPLAINT FOR PROTECTION FROM ABUSE 17 Pursuant to Chapter 15 of this title, I request that the court enter an order protecting me 18 from abuse. 19 (1) My full name, present street address, city, and telephone number are as follows: 2 ______________________________________________________________1 _________ 2 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 3 (2) My former residence, which I have left to avoid abuse, is as follows (street address 4 and city): _______________________________________________________________ __ 5 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 6 (3) The full name, present street address, city, and telephone number of the person 7 causing me abuse (the defendant) are as follows: 8 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 9 (4) My relationship to the defendant is as follows: 10 _____ We (are) (were formerly) married to one another. 11 _____ I am the defendant's (child) (parent). 12 _____ I am the blood relative or relative by marriage of the defendant; specifically, the 13 defendant is my _______________________________________________________. 14 _____ I and the defendant are together the legal parents of one or more children. 15 (5) On or about ______________________________, I suffered abuse when the 16 defendant: 17 _____ Threatened or harmed me with a weapon; (type of weapon used: ____________) 18 _____ Attempted to cause me physical harm; 19 _____ Caused me physical harm; 20 _____ Placed me in fear of imminent physical harm; 21 _____ Caused me to engage involuntarily in sexual relations by force, threat of force, or 22 duress. Specifically, the defendant 23 _______________________________________________________________ _________ 24 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 25 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 26 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 27 (6) ____ Present in the residence when I suffered this abuse was a domestic, companion 28 animal. 29 (6) (7) I ask that: 30 _____ The court order that the defendant be restrained and enjoined from contacting, 31 assaulting, molesting, or otherwise interfering with the plaintiff at home, on the street or 32 elsewhere. 33 _____ The court order the defendant to immediately leave the household which is 34 located at 3 ___________1 _______________________________________________________ 2 _____ The court award me temporary custody of the following minor child(ren) (the 3 defendant and I are husband and wife): 4 Names Date of Birth 5 That 6 _______________________________________________________________ _________ 7 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 8 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 9 I request that the above relief be ordered without notice because it clearly appears from 10 specific facts shown by affidavit or by the verified complaint that I will suffer immediate and 11 irreparable injury, loss, or damage before notice can be served and a hearing had thereon. I 12 understand that the court will schedule a hearing no later than twenty-one (21) days after the 13 order is entered on the question of continuing the temporary order. 14 (7) (8) I have not sought protection from abuse from any other judge of the family court 15 arising out of the facts or circumstances alleged in this complaint. 16 (8) (9) That the court award me support for my minor children as required by law for a 17 period not to exceed ninety (90) days. 18 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 19 (Signature) (Date) 20 Subscribed and sworn to before me in _____________________________in the county 21 of ______________________________in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, 22 this ___________ day of ____________________________________A.D. 20 _______. 23 _______________________________________________________________ 24 Notary Public 25 Note: If this complaint is filed by an attorney, the attorney's certificate should appear as 26 below: 27 ATTORNEY CERTIFICATE 28 Signed: 29 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 30 Attorney for Plaintiff 31 Address: 32 _______________________________________________________________ _________ 33 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 34 Date: _______________________, 20______ 4 WHITE COPY – 1 Court 2 YELLOW COPY – Plaintiff 3 PINK COPY – Defendant 4 GOLDENROD COPY – Police Department 5 (b) A form in substantially the following language shall suffice for the purpose of 6 requesting temporary orders under this chapter: 7 STATE OF RHODE ISLAND FAMILY COURT 8 COUNTY OF ______________________ 9 ________________________________________: 10 Plaintiff: 11 VS. : F.C. NO. 12 _______________________________________________________________ ________: 13 _________________________________________: 14 Defendant: 15 16 TEMPORARY ORDER PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 15 OF 17 THIS TITLE GENERAL LAWS OF RHODE ISLAND 18 Upon consideration of plaintiff's complaint and having found that immediate and 19 irreparable injury, loss, or damage will result to the plaintiff before a notice can be served and a 20 hearing had thereon it is ORDERED: 21 _____ That the defendant is restrained and enjoined from contacting, assaulting, 22 molesting, or otherwise interfering with plaintiff at home, on the street, or elsewhere. 23 _____ That the defendant vacate forthwith the household locate at 24 _______________________________________________________________ ____ 25 _____ That the plaintiff, being the [husband] [wife] of the defendant, be and [s]he 26 hereby is awarded temporary custody of the minor child(ren) the sum of $ _________per_____. 27 _____ A hearing on the continuation ORDER will be held at the family court, 28 ________________County, at ___________[A.M.] [P.M.] on 29 ________________________if the defendant wishes to be heard, [s]he will be heard at 30 that time. If [s]he does not appear at that time, this ORDER shall remain in effect. 31 This ORDER is effective forthwith, and will remain in effect until the time and date of 32 the above-mentioned hearing. 33 A copy of this ORDER shall be transmitted to the appropriate local law enforcement 34 agency forthwith, and shall be served in-hand on the defendant herein. 5 1 ENTERED as an order of court this ______________ day of ____________________, 2 A.D. 20_____. 3 SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage. ======= LC01925/SUB A/2 ======== 6 EXPLANATION BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF A N A C T RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- COURTS *** 1 This act would permit the district court or the family court, in instances where domestic 2 violence is alleged, to include in any orders provisions for the care, custody and control of any 3 companion animal as set forth in section 4-13.1-2, kept or held by either party, or by a minor 4 child residing in the household. 5 This act would take effect upon passage. ======= LC01925/SUB A/2 ======= Dennis http://www.defendersofanimals.org -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- See what's free at AOL.com.   More... Victory in RI Senate...Animals...domestic violence protection (May 23, 2007) Please see copy of the bill below: Senate Bill No.463 SUB A BY Perry, Sosnowski, Miller, Tassoni, Alves ENTITLED, AN ACT RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- COURTS (permit the district court or the family court, in instances where domestic violence is alleged, to include in any orders provisions for the care, custody and control of any companion animal) {LC1925/2/A} 02/13/2007 Introduced, referred to Senate Judiciary 03/13/2007 Scheduled for hearing and/or consideration 03/13/2007 Committee recommended measure be held for further study 04/26/2007 Scheduled for consideration 04/26/2007 Committee recommends passage of Sub A 05/16/2007 Placed on Senate Calendar 05/22/2007 Senate passed Sub A 2007 -- S 0463 SUBSTITUTE A ======= LC01925/SUB A/2 ======= S T A T E O F R H O D E I S L A N D IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2007 ____________ A N A C T RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- COURTS Introduced By: Senators Perry, Sosnowski, Miller, Tassoni, and Alves Date Introduced: February 13, 2007 Referred To: Senate Judiciary It is enacted by the General Assembly as follows: SECTION 1. Section 15-15-6 of the General Laws in Chapter 15-1 15 entitled "Domestic 2 Abuse Prevention" is hereby amended to read as follows: 3 15-15-6. Form of complaint. -- 4 (a) A form in substantially the following language shall suffice for the purpose of filing a 5 complaint under this chapter: 6 7 STATE OF RHODE ISLAND FAMILY COURT 8 COUNTY OF ________________________ 9 ______________________________________: 10 Plaintiff: 11 VS. : F.C.NO. 12 _______________________________________________________________ ________: 13 ______________________________________: 14 Defendant: 15 16 COMPLAINT FOR PROTECTION FROM ABUSE 17 Pursuant to Chapter 15 of this title, I request that the court enter an order protecting me 18 from abuse. 19 (1) My full name, present street address, city, and telephone number are as follows: 2 ______________________________________________________________1 _________ 2 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 3 (2) My former residence, which I have left to avoid abuse, is as follows (street address 4 and city): _______________________________________________________________ __ 5 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 6 (3) The full name, present street address, city, and telephone number of the person 7 causing me abuse (the defendant) are as follows: 8 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 9 (4) My relationship to the defendant is as follows: 10 _____ We (are) (were formerly) married to one another. 11 _____ I am the defendant's (child) (parent). 12 _____ I am the blood relative or relative by marriage of the defendant; specifically, the 13 defendant is my _______________________________________________________. 14 _____ I and the defendant are together the legal parents of one or more children. 15 (5) On or about ______________________________, I suffered abuse when the 16 defendant: 17 _____ Threatened or harmed me with a weapon; (type of weapon used: ____________) 18 _____ Attempted to cause me physical harm; 19 _____ Caused me physical harm; 20 _____ Placed me in fear of imminent physical harm; 21 _____ Caused me to engage involuntarily in sexual relations by force, threat of force, or 22 duress. Specifically, the defendant 23 _______________________________________________________________ _________ 24 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 25 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 26 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 27 (6) ____ Present in the residence when I suffered this abuse was a domestic, companion 28 animal. 29 (6) (7) I ask that: 30 _____ The court order that the defendant be restrained and enjoined from contacting, 31 assaulting, molesting, or otherwise interfering with the plaintiff at home, on the street or 32 elsewhere. 33 _____ The court order the defendant to immediately leave the household which is 34 located at 3 ___________1 _______________________________________________________ 2 _____ The court award me temporary custody of the following minor child(ren) (the 3 defendant and I are husband and wife): 4 Names Date of Birth 5 That 6 _______________________________________________________________ _________ 7 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 8 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 9 I request that the above relief be ordered without notice because it clearly appears from 10 specific facts shown by affidavit or by the verified complaint that I will suffer immediate and 11 irreparable injury, loss, or damage before notice can be served and a hearing had thereon. I 12 understand that the court will schedule a hearing no later than twenty-one (21) days after the 13 order is entered on the question of continuing the temporary order. 14 (7) (8) I have not sought protection from abuse from any other judge of the family court 15 arising out of the facts or circumstances alleged in this complaint. 16 (8) (9) That the court award me support for my minor children as required by law for a 17 period not to exceed ninety (90) days. 18 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 19 (Signature) (Date) 20 Subscribed and sworn to before me in _____________________________in the county 21 of ______________________________in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, 22 this ___________ day of ____________________________________A.D. 20 _______. 23 _______________________________________________________________ 24 Notary Public 25 Note: If this complaint is filed by an attorney, the attorney's certificate should appear as 26 below: 27 ATTORNEY CERTIFICATE 28 Signed: 29 _______________________________________________________________ ___ 30 Attorney for Plaintiff 31 Address: 32 _______________________________________________________________ _________ 33 _______________________________________________________________ _______________ 34 Date: _______________________, 20______ 4 WHITE COPY – 1 Court 2 YELLOW COPY – Plaintiff 3 PINK COPY – Defendant 4 GOLDENROD COPY – Police Department 5 (b) A form in substantially the following language shall suffice for the purpose of 6 requesting temporary orders under this chapter: 7 STATE OF RHODE ISLAND FAMILY COURT 8 COUNTY OF ______________________ 9 ________________________________________: 10 Plaintiff: 11 VS. : F.C. NO. 12 _______________________________________________________________ ________: 13 _________________________________________: 14 Defendant: 15 16 TEMPORARY ORDER PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 15 OF 17 THIS TITLE GENERAL LAWS OF RHODE ISLAND 18 Upon consideration of plaintiff's complaint and having found that immediate and 19 irreparable injury, loss, or damage will result to the plaintiff before a notice can be served and a 20 hearing had thereon it is ORDERED: 21 _____ That the defendant is restrained and enjoined from contacting, assaulting, 22 molesting, or otherwise interfering with plaintiff at home, on the street, or elsewhere. 23 _____ That the defendant vacate forthwith the household locate at 24 _______________________________________________________________ ____ 25 _____ That the plaintiff, being the [husband] [wife] of the defendant, be and [s]he 26 hereby is awarded temporary custody of the minor child(ren) the sum of $ _________per_____. 27 _____ A hearing on the continuation ORDER will be held at the family court, 28 ________________County, at ___________[A.M.] [P.M.] on 29 ________________________if the defendant wishes to be heard, [s]he will be heard at 30 that time. If [s]he does not appear at that time, this ORDER shall remain in effect. 31 This ORDER is effective forthwith, and will remain in effect until the time and date of 32 the above-mentioned hearing. 33 A copy of this ORDER shall be transmitted to the appropriate local law enforcement 34 agency forthwith, and shall be served in-hand on the defendant herein. 5 1 ENTERED as an order of court this ______________ day of ____________________, 2 A.D. 20_____. 3 SECTION 2. This act shall take effect upon passage. ======= LC01925/SUB A/2 ======== 6 EXPLANATION BY THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL OF A N A C T RELATING TO COURTS AND CIVIL PROCEDURE -- COURTS *** 1 This act would permit the district court or the family court, in instances where domestic 2 violence is alleged, to include in any orders provisions for the care, custody and control of any 3 companion animal as set forth in section 4-13.1-2, kept or held by either party, or by a minor 4 child residing in the household. 5 This act would take effect upon passage. ======= LC01925/SUB A/2 ======= Dennis http://www.defendersofanimals.org -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- See what's free at AOL.com.   More... Animal Legislation Alert! (March 16, 2007) Do you know how many animals you could help in one night?  More... Defenders of Animals seeks to outlaw deer hunting on municipally-owned properties (November 22, 2006) Defenders of Animals said yesterday that his organization and the Humane Society of Jamestown are planning a voter initiative that would ban deer hunting on town-owned land.  More... Defenders of Animals, Inc. honors Sen. Tassoni (August 28, 2006) STATE HOUSE – Sen. John J. Tassoni Jr. (D-Dist. 22, Smithfield, North Smithfield) will be honored by the Defenders of Animals, Inc., as part of the 11th annual Homeless Animals Day to be held Saturday, August 19, at the Rose Larisa Park in Riverside.   More... Rep. Lima honored by Defenders of Animals (August 28, 2006) For the second year in a row, House Speaker Tempore Charlene M. Lima was honored by the Defenders of Animals for her dedication to the prevention of animal cruelty and suffering.  More... Fund for Spaying and Neutering (March 4, 2006) Legislation introduced by Senator Rhoda Perry and co-sponsored by Senators Tassoni, Gallo, and Damiani would establish a fund for spaying and neutering of cats and dogs and would provide funds from contributions from a check-off on the Rhode Island peronal income tax form. Defenders of Animals, Inc., is supporting this bill (S-2541)  More... Circus Ban Bill (March 2, 2006) Circus Ban: House Bill (H-7430) introduced by Representative Gallison "This Act would prohibit the operation of an animal circus in this state."   More... Leghold Trap (March 2, 2006) RI House Bill H-7746 would eliminate special permits for the barbaric leghold traps in Rhode Island As you may recall, "Gideon" was featured on NBC/TV Ten when Defenders of Animals had to have his leg amputated and then there was "Whitey" the cat that almost had his tail amputated and had to have extensive care for months. Both cats were caught in these leghold traps in Rhode Island.   More... Malicious Injury to or Killing Animals (March 2, 2006) Fines to increase from $1,000 to $10,000 for malicious injury to or killing animals   More... Press Conference/Rally at RI Statehouse (January 31, 2006)   More... Dog Protection Bill Introduced (January 31, 2006) This bill, if passed, would protect dogs from freezing and hot weather conditions and place restrictions on pet owners that leave their dogs tied up without shelter or food  More... Puppy Lemon Bill Introduced (January 31, 2006) The bill addresses the problem that people are having purchasing sick puppies from Rhode Island pet stores. Too many pet stores are buying puppies from puppy mills out of state. Please call Defenders of Animals, Inc., at 738-3710 for further information.  More... Mandatory Spay/Neuter Bill (January 10, 2006) (a) No person shall own or harbor, within the state, 8 any cat over the age of six (6) months which has not been spayed or neutered, unless such person 9 holds either a license to keep an unaltered cat, or a license and permit for breeding cats   More... Gas Chambers Banned in Rhode Island (August 25, 2005) Life is as dear to a mute creature as it is to man. Just as one wants happiness and fears pain, just as one wants to live and not die, so do other creatures. ~ Dalai Lama, Tibetan Spiritual Leader  More... Time to ban steel-jaw leghold traps (3/04/05) Editorial Time to ban steel-jaw leghold traps By: MARCIA GRANN O'BRIEN 03/04/2005 Narragansett Times   More... Adequate Shelter for Animals (3/28/05) House Bill (H-6169)  More... Circus Ban (3/28/05) Circus Ban: House Bill (H-5356)   More... Gas Chamber Ban Bill to be heard (3/28/2005) Gas Chamber Ban: House Bill (H-5959) introduced by Representative Lima and co-sponsored by Representative Gallison will be heard in the HEW Committee on Wednesday, March 30, 2005, Bills are scheduled to begin at the rise of the House (4:15 p.m. to 4:30 P.M. http://www.rilin.state.ri.us/Billtext/BillText05/HouseText05/H5959.pdf   More... Gas Chamber Ban Bill Passes in Committee (3/23/05) Senate Bill S-0379, a bill that will ban all gas chambers in Rhode Island has passed in Committee   More... Gas Chamber Ban Bill for Rhode Island (2/17/05) Support H-5545: Ban the Gas Chamber in Rhode Island  More... Abandoned Animal Legislation (2-12-05) RI Senate Bill S-0498 would provide penalties to people that abandon animals  More... Coyote Meeting (2/12/05) ...Save the coyotes from the leghold trap and from hunters  More... Cat caught in leghold trap (2/3/05) "Gideon" the gray and white male cat that was caught in a trap and had to have a rear leg amputated is in a great home tonight.  More... Oppose this hunting bill (2/3/05) This Senate bill, S0201, would allow hunters to shoot weapons within 300' from an occupied dwelling.  More... Gas Chamber Ban (1/3/05) Council to ban gas in animal euthanasia   More... Coyotes need your help now! (2/2/05) Help save the coyotes  More...

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