Please be responsible with animals; do not dump on others – 15 cats surrendered to RCHS

On August 1 a conjoined effort of a Ripley County citizen; the State of Indiana; the Ripley County Health Department, led by Dr. David J. Welsh MD; the Ripley County Humane Society; and Ripley County Sheriff’s Department intervened to assist in the surrender of fifteen cats and several rabbits.

Dr. Welsh recounts that the Ripley County Health Department was contacted about a situation where “a very nice individual trying to help” became overwhelmed with the number of animals and care needed.

The Ripley County resident voluntarily relinquished 15 cats and several rabbits. Reportedly when it became “common knowledge” that this person would take care of strays; unknown individuals began “dropping” cats at this address.

Dr. Welsh describes this situation as unfortunate and a result of a kind hearted person caring for unwanted animals. He further notes the organizations involved have a plan in action to post signs to try to avoid further dumping of animals at this address.

The organizations are also assisting the Ripley County resident to provide low-cost spay/neuter services and continue to monitor the situation in home. Decatur County and Dearborn County were contacted, but it was not necessary to relocate any of the cats to other counties.

A visit to Ripley County Humane Society (RCHS) revealed these kittens and cats adjusting to their new situation and receiving the best of care. Janet Orr, the administrator of RCHS, revealed that some of the cats were undernourished and some had eye and ear problems but overall were in pretty good condition and improving daily.

A 15-cat influx has proved a strain on the RCHS in supplies needed. If you are able to donate in any way, supplies or money please contact RCHS at (812) 689-3773.

RCHS relies on donations to provide the no-kill animal shelter and rehome these and other resident cats and dogs. RCHS has a couple of events coming up.

Friday and Saturday (August 18-19) a yard sale to benefit RCHS will be held on the corner of Gas Light Drive and IN-Hwy 421 (across from the Southeastern Career Center and Subway). All proceeds go to RCHS.

On Wednesday (October 4) at 7:00 pm, St. Andrews Health Campus (1400 Lammers Pike, Batesville) will host their Third Annual Dog Show. They have Best of Show, Best Trick and Best Costume categories. Call to register: (812) 934-5090. The $5 entry fee covers a night of good dogs and great fun that also benefits RCHS.

It is illegal in Indiana to abandon animals. According to IN Code: 35-46-3-7 it is illegal to “recklessly, knowingly or intentionally abandon or neglect an animal; commit cruelty to an animal” and is a Class A misdemeanor. However, under section 1 “the offense is a Level 6 felony if the person has a prior unrelated conviction under this chapter.”