Humane Officers

I must comment on the Nov. 6 article regarding humane officers. The overall impression left by the article discounted the dedication of humane officers who monitor and eradicate cruelty to animals, overlooked the risks that these officers undergo when they infiltrate a dogfighting ring, disregarded the fact that humane officers partner with other peace officers in their efforts to combat violence in our community and ignored the fact that they serve as educators, career models, rescuers (they are willing to hang off a cliff to rescue somebody’s injured dog) and disaster relief workers.

Instead, the article focused on the negative and exceptional aspects of this system. Even within this imperfect system, most California humane officers employed by reputable organizations receive training in excess of that mandated by the new law and could withstand scrutiny of any oversight board. In fact, it was the reputable organizations that joined together and demanded the more stringent regulations.

While I think it is essential that we constantly re-evaluate our programs to best fulfill our missions, it is also essential to keep a sense of perspective on the issue. This type of an article can do damage to those of us who exist on financial contributions and donations based upon our meritorious performances in the field. Such an article can impede the progress of our organizations, damage the reputation of humane officers at large, and give publicity and credibility to those who deserve it the least.

MADELINE BERNSTEIN

Executive Director

Los Angeles SPCA

Southern California Humane Society

Los Angeles