CCSPCA Investigators

ABOUT THE INVESTIGATORS

    The Cumberland County SPCA employs two full-time agents in the cruelty department. They investigate all issues dealing with cruelty or neglect within the county, which covers 20 cities and townships. In 2005 agents received 972 reports of animal abuse. They responded to each call to determine if it was valid, and took necessary measures to correct the situation. Our agents have been thanked by people who reported animal abuse for relieving the animals' suffering. They have been recognized for their professionalism and persistence when prosecuting cases. But they have also been threatened by individuals not wanting to be told how to care for their animal.

        Typically, our agents educate pet owners regarding the laws governing animal welfare in the state of NJ, as well as pointing out exact problems on that specific property. The agents recommend solutions to those problems and give owners information. They allow a certain time period for corrections to be made, depending on the situation. Agents follow the case until all improvements needed are complete. Our goal is to give the animal a better life by educating the owner about the needs of pets. We accomplish this goal 80% of the time.

        Of course, there are 10% of the cases where an owner doesn't want to be told how to care for their animal, or the situation is beyond repair and the animal is seized on the spot. When this occurs, the agents have the law on their side, and will prosecute the offenders in court. Perhaps the judge will convince the individual that care requirements for animals are not a joke in the state of NJ. Agents issued 172 summonses in the year 2005 for those needing a little more persuading or punishment.

        What happens to the other 10% you ask? Many times pet owners will simply admit that they are over burdened with children, work, school, other pets, or life in general, and they will relinquish custody of the pet. The SPCA can then find the animal a loving home.

        These are some of the reasons most shelters and rescues require screening processes today. They want to be as sure as possible that they are not placing an animal into a bad or downright dangerous situation. This is also why, if you need to find a new home for an animal, be careful about who you give the animal to.... free to good home ads result in more cruelty cases for our agents. Not everyone follows through with good intentions.

        Your donations help us help them. Your donations help us to keep our doors open to animals needing our help. We provide a safe & warm place to sleep; wholesome meals; fresh water to drink; the care of a veterinarian to heal their wounds, and a loving responsible home. Help us teach them that people really are good and won't hurt them. Help us give them their first toy (many dogs we take in have never seen a toy and don't know what to do with them at first). If you would like to meet some of the animals our agents have helped this year please take a minute and read the stories below. They will give you just a tiny glimpse of what our agents face each and every day. If you've already heard enough and would like to find out how you can help please click the following link to donate to our cause.