HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0756.018 2022-2024 P/3. Council
bill 07
CAMM.756
From: Sparrow Guyre-Allen
Sent: Thursday, May 16, 2024 8:04 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Communication 756.2
A
Betsy Webb Guyre-Allen, DVM
92-1236 Hokulani Blvd —� -"~
Hawaiian Ocean View Ranchos
Ka'u, Hawaii
May 15,2024
County Council
Dear Hawaii County Council members,
The Ocean View community,and Ka'u in general,are desperately in need of an animal holding facility,and have been for decades. The
numbers of loose pets, feral dogs, and abandoned animals has increased exponentially in recent years.
This has risen to a public health crisis in this community,with risk of death to individuals and other animals,both pets and livestock. The
county's role in animal control is paramount to safeguarding public health. Enforcement of existing licensing and loose/stray dog laws must
become the accepted norm, rather than the exception.
It is notable that animal control nearly everywhere else in the world is predicated on control of the universally fatal rabies virus. It is fortunate
that we continue to be rabies-free. However,the current risk to public health is very real,as described on social media daily.
There is a confidence gap or cynicism in County Animal Control services,with some public reluctance to surrender stray dogs. Continued
public relations and education are an integral part for community support and success going forward. It might be worthwhile to consider
changing the 48 hour mandatory holding period to a longer minimum number of days, to assure individuals that pets will not be inadvertently
rehomed or euthanized. However,if licensing and microchipping ordinances are strictly enforced there should not be an issue reuniting
animals with their owners.
Thank you for your consideration and attention to this critical public health matter.
Sincerely yours,
Betsy Webb Guyre-Allen,DVM (retired)
Hawaii Island resident 45 years
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Comm. Iv1Jl. Vg
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