Extra Special Pets & Animals
Feb 7, 2009 6:49 pm US/Central
Veterinarians Work Hard To Spot Animal Abuse
(WCCO)
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The great majority of pets that come to the Southview Animal Hospital in Inver Grove Heights are well cared for. But every so often, the doctors see something alarming.
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A disturbing animal abuse case in Wisconsin is focusing attention on the connection between pets and family violence.
This week, Raymond Knez Junior was charged with first degree reckless endangerment as well as three counts each of mental harm to a child and mistreating animals. Knez is accused of shooting to death the family's four dogs and two cats.
Six children were inside the Boyd, Wisconsin home at the time. The children were taken immediately into protective custody. In this case involving a rifle around children, the potential for harm is obvious. But, Minnesota veterinarians are looking for more subtle signs that could also mean someone is at risk.
The great majority of pets that come to the Southview Animal Hospital in Inver Grove Heights are well cared for. But every so often, the doctors see something alarming.
"I've seen a cat with a fractured leg, who the woman's boyfriend had thrown the cat," said Dr. Mike Foster.
Sometimes it's an unexplained bruise or bizarre fracture.
"There's no explanation for an injury. The owner will just say the dog fell down the steps," said Dr. Emmy Hartman.
Hartman is a more recent veterinary school graduate. She says spotting abuse is a part of their training. Veterinarians also learn about the correlation between animal abuse and violence in the home.
"Unfortunately, animals and children are most susceptible populations to abuse. They are completely vulnerable, they don't have a voice," she said.
The Humane Society of the United States' campaign called First Strike is working with animal professionals to prevent family violence. The Humane Society hopes to create a greater awareness by training animal care workers and law enforcement.
Veterinarians consider themselves on the frontlines of spotting this type of violence, though it's not always clear what is intentional abuse. But, these professionals know they could be the victims' best chance for help.
"In the fear-based abuse cases, we're oftentimes the only ones who can speak up," said Hartman.
Veterinarians are required to report suspected abuse.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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