July 2011
COYOTE CO-EXISTENCE MEETING

December 2010
Deficiencies Found in Shelter Inspection Humane Society Asks to Tour Facility

November 8, 2010
FORMER POLICE LIAISON REVEALS ILLEGAL OPERATIONS OF THE ROICY DUHON ANIMAL SHELTER

October 2010
Inaugural Oak Street Pelican Block Party Celebrating All Things Pelican!

October 2010
Canine Deaths Raise Concerns Humane Society Requests Formation of K-9 Oversight Committee

September 2010
Pit Bull Barely Survives Street Fight - Canine Found with Multiple Bite Wounds

July 2010
Activist Files Police Report - Alleges BP Criminally Abused Animals

June 2010
"Renate" Named Humane Society of Louisiana's "Dog of the Year," German Shepherd Survives Neglect and Abandonment

May 2010
Local Humane Society Combats Widespread Animal Abuse (Acadia)

April 2010
NOLA Veggie Fest Press Release (download .pdf flyer)

April 2010
Medical Reports Confirm Public's Suspicions: Primo, Former NOPD Canine, Died From Heat Exhaustion.

April 2010
Sheriff Deputies Shoot and Kill Owner's Dog Without Cause. Anguished Owner Plans to File Suit against Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office

April 2010
Humane Society of Louisiana Coordinates Supply Drive, Asks Community to Support Parish Animal Shelter

February 2010
Humane Society of Louisiana Recognizes Fire Station #24. Firemen Save Blind Walker Hound.

February 2010
Humane Society 'Top Dogs' in Indy, New Orleans Support Their Teams with 'Shelter Bowl' Challenge

January 4, 2010
Acadia Caretaker Cited for Starving Three Horses

2009 -2007 Press Releases >>

July 2011
COYOTOE CO-EXISTENCE MEETING

Baton Rouge, LA - The Louisiana Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (LAWRA) will be holding multiple public informational meetings across South Louisiana on citizen coyote co-existence over the next few weeks. LAWRA has become increasingly concerned about the use of coyote management techniques that have proven ineffective in other communities across the United States. "These meetings will be open to and designed for the public to have an open discussion on ways for residents to minimize their contact and deal with their new coyote neighbors," said LAWRA Vice-President Beau Gast. "The current management of the population by gunshot has been scientifically proven through extensive study to be ineffective and in many cases results in an increase in the coyote population. It's expensive and simply doesn't work."

The first public meeting, co-hosted with the Humane Society of Louisiana, will be held at the Harahan City Hall on Monday July 11, 2011 at 5:30 PM. The meeting is free and open to anyone with an interest in co-existing with coyotes or wanting more information on minimizing their interactions with coyote. "We are working with our partners at the Humane Society of Louisiana, Project Coyote and the Humane Society of the United States to educate the public and government officials about coyote biology and the best available sound management and co-existence policies and techniques," said Gast.

LAWRA is also working with Project Coyote to create a comprehensive "co-existing with coyotes" plan to present to local government officials. LAWRA will have copies of similar successful plans available to the public at the meetings. "In other communities an effective co-existence plan enacted and followed in cooperation with all the agencies involved resulted in the coyote population remaining wild and very wary of people and their pets. In many areas sightings greatly decreased." Media Availability: Beau Gast, Vice-President of the Louisiana Wildlife Rehabilitators Association, can be reached at 985-789-1061 or bgast@lawraonline.com.

About LAWRA: The Louisiana Wildlife Rehabilitators Association (LAWRA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit, is Louisiana's largest wildlife protection organization providing resources for Louisiana's Wildlife Rehabilitators and safeguarding the future of Louisiana's wildlife through the support of sound wildlife management. Our members take in all of Louisiana's injured and orphaned wildlife, including coyotes, for rehabilitation and release and are directly involved in humane nuisance wildlife management counseling on a daily basis.

About Project Coyote: Project Coyote is a national non-profit organization of scientists and educators promoting coexistence between people and coyotes and advocating on behalf of North America’s native Song Dog and other wildlife.

More information: http://www.ProjectCoyote.org

About the Humane Society of Louisiana: The Humane Society of Louisiana is one of the largest animal protection groups in the state, with more than 10,000 supporters.

December 2010
Deficiencies Found in Shelter Inspection Humane Society Asks to Tour Facility

(Lafayette, LA) -- In May of this year, an assessment report conducted by a representative of the Louisiana Animal Welfare Commission (LAWC), Dr. Gary Balsamo, documented several deficiencies pursuant to the operation of the Roicy Duhon Animal Shelter in a report that was recently made available to the Humane Society of Louisiana. The report, among other findings, noted that cats were housed in less than adequate space and there were too few shelter workers to efficiently operate the shelter.

Overcrowding conditions have been an ongoing problem at this facility. Former police officer John Bergeron who was the police liaison to the shelter from 2004 to 2006 has informed the Humane Society of Louisiana of serious operational problems at the time of his employment as well. Officer Bergeron also observed cats housed in overcrowded conditions, several housed in a single cage, kept in an unheated and unventilated space, the shelter garage, which was once described as "an ugly scene" by employees. Few of the employees, in Bergeron's opinion, received adequate training or supervision. The humane society, therefore, is concerned that these housing conditions constituted criminal activity committed by shelter personnel, which has never been properly investigated or addressed.

The Roicey Duhon Animal Shelter has been the center of controversy for the past several years. More than three years ago, the shelter and the parish administration were the subject of a lawsuit filed by several plaintiffs, Garo Alexanian and a total of thirteen citizens, who sued to obtain copies of shelter records under the Louisiana Public Records Act. It is believed that a shift level investigation report identified to the Humane Society of Louisiana was improperly withheld from the Alexanian plaintiffs. Two additional suits have since been filed against the parish. One petition, filed by Thomas Angers, a local resident and attorney, seeks damages for the loss of his cat who was euthanized at the shelter several years ago, in spite of aggressive attempts to rescue it because he was not allowed to see the illegal holding areas thereby revealing further criminal activity.

A new suit, which the Humane Society of Louisiana has joined with Angers, Edna R. Perkins and Cindy F. North, also seeks disclosure of public records under the Louisiana Public Records Act and mandamus and injunctive relief.

The most recent audit filed on behalf of LAWC and dated May 18 of this year, noted several areas of concern, among them:

- lack of a written protocol for euthanasia procedures - both for routine and emergency occurrences

- lack of shelter standards as legislated by parish ordinance

- failure to perform semi-annual inspections by an authorized parish official, which is mandated under state law

- lack of signage that informs the public of hours of operation and emergency phone number, which is also mandated under state law

- lack of daily observation/report writing for all animals

- lack of moisture prevention safe-guards around electrical outlets

- lack of sufficient number of sinks to wash food/water bowls and other equipment

- lack of sufficient room to store supplies and food and lack of tracking system for food use

- lack of sufficient room (4 square feet) per cat. Cat area was described as "congested."

- lack of all enclosures that are easily sanitized

- lack of disease control of external parasites for incoming animals

- need for better response to minimize intestinal parasites, canine distemper, canine cough, feline upper respiratory disease, and canine heartworm disease

- lack of temperament testing of canines and lack of pre-admission vaccination program

- lack of secure area when animals are handled outside of facility

- lack of an isolation area

- insufficient lighting in some areas

Other problems noted in the report are as follows:

- soiled towels were stored adjacent to food supplies, which could lead to cross-contamination of infectious organisms

- accumulation of hair and dirt observed on the ventilation fans

- use of some plastic, instead of stainless steel bowls

The report also noted that the shelter was understaffed for the number of animals it housed and the number of residents served by the parish.

"The shelter report compiled by LAWC shows that this facility and administration are still lax in their compliance with state mandated requirements. Fifteen separate problems were identified in LAWC's May report, which is fifteen problems too many," says Jeff Dorson, HSL Director. This shelter has red flags all around it - and yet the administration pretends that all is well. We are here to say otherwise. This administration is spending hundreds of thousands of dollars defending itself in lawsuits, when it should simply be spending public funds on addressing the problems that were exposed by the lawsuits," adds Dorson.

The shelters past history of storing animals in overcrowded and inhumane conditions constitutes crimes by public employees and creates civil violations and citizens who believe they were victims of the operation should contact their attorneys to explore their legal rights.

To make his own assessment of the shelter operations, Dorson has filed a request with Ms. Virginia Lee, the shelter director, to tour the facility within the next fifteen days. "I am sure that the mayor hopes that I and other concerned citizens will simply move on to other issues. But until these problems are resolved to our satisfaction, our flag will remain planted in front of this shelter," Dorson says.

November 8, 2010
FORMER POLICE LIAISON REVEALS ILLEGAL OPERATIONS OF THE ROICY DUHON ANIMAL SHELTER

(Lafayette, LA) -- The Humane Society of Louisiana (HSL) has learned that the Lafayette Consolidated Government's Roicy Duhon Animal Shelter operated for years in violation of Title 3 of the La. Revised Statutes on minimal standards for animal shelters and routinely killed animals because of overcrowding and improper storage space.

Capturing, holding and killing animals in spite of inadequate space and inhumane conditions appears to involve multiple crimes under the animal cruelty statute because it is a crime to capture an animal without sufficient space to hold it, to hold it in overcrowding conditions or kill it because of overcrowding. It appears therefore that thousands of civil violations and thousands of crimes were committed by public employees while on taxpayer paid payrolls.

The Humane Society urges any citizen who believes his animal was captured, held or killed illegally to contact his or her attorney and the Humane Society of Louisiana at 901-268-4432. The Humane Society of Louisiana interviewed Officer John Bergeron, longtime Lafayette Police Department liaison to the shelter.

Officer Bergeron observed many problems during the course of his tenure associated with the care, housing and treatment of the sheltered animals and eventually prepared a shift level report which was turned in to his ranking officers. The report noted the over-crowded and inhumane conditions and the lack of sanitation and improper control. Cats, for example, were denied their legal space requirements and were grouped often with too many to a cage. The kennel floors were not sealed, leading the animals exposed to germs and diseases. Kennel workers, furthermore, were inadequate in number and not properly trained. Impounded cats, for example, not properly identified or separated. In fact, those deemed feral, or wild, were housed in cages in the unheated and unventilated garage which is clearly illegal.

In a recent conversation with Mr. Jeff Dorson, Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana, Mr. Bergeron said that animals were routinely kept in overcrowded conditions and put to death because of lack of space during his tenure - conditions which violate both the state cruelty statutes and Title 3, section 2463. Officer Bergeron recommended that a new shelter be built. However, Officer Bergeron's report and recommendations were dismissed by his superiors. Officer Bergeron resigned in 2006,citing the poor conditions at the shelter.

"Overall, we are deeply disturbed by the actions of LCG and its shelter personnel. There appears to be a great effort to shield the public from knowing about the internal affairs of this holding facility, and the picture that has been painted for us is far from adequate. It appears that animals were improperly housed in overcrowded, inhumane and therefore illegal conditions, paperwork destroyed,and family pets killed. And at the end of the day, the parish has spent approximately $200,000 in tax payers dollars to defend the very practices we find unacceptable. Family pets are killed illegally, remedies and recommendations are not acted upon, suspected criminal activity is sanctioned and overlooked, paperwork is destroyed or not made available to the public, and sheltered animals are subjected to harsh conditions. Obviously, change has to come to this parish and soon," says Dorson.

HSL is also a party to a suit which compels LCG to produce copies of public documents and reports. "Lafayette Consolidated Government has spent about $200,000 in taxpayer money fighting taxpayer and citizen attempts to gain information, documents and access in order to review the operations of the shelter. What a tragic waste of public funds that could have been spent on the new shelter deemed necessary by the police officer in charge and ignored by the administration," adds Dorson.

The Humane Society of Louisiana is one of the largest animal protection groups in the state, with more than 10,000 supporters. For more information, please visit their website atwww.humanela.org or call 1-888-6-humane.

October 2010

Inaugural Oak Street Pelican Block Party Celebrating All Things Pelican!

(New Orleans, LA) -- To keep the attention on the wonderful world of our coastal marine and wildlife, the Humane Society of Louisiana is coordinating the inaugural Oak Street Pelican Block Party with various Oak Street merchants. Participating stores will be decorating their businesses with pelicans and other examples of marine life and offering specials to commemorate the event. Participating businesses will also donate a percentage of all sales to the HSL, which was very active in protecting the environment and the wildlife during the recent Deepwater Horizon BP oil spill. The group also operates a no-kill sanctuary in Tylertown, Mississippi, which is home to more than 200 animals.

Participating stores include The Curry Corner, The Body Bistro, Blue Cypress Books, Salon Alphonse, Oak Street Cafe, Oak, Lil' Dave's Alterations, Skip and Whistle, Scissorman's Paws and Claws, Glue, and Jacques-Imo's.

For every purchase made at these participating stores, buyers will receive a "pelican sweepstakes card," which will be entered into drawings for prizes held throughout the day. Skip and Whistle has designed and will sell the official pelican block party t-shirt and specialty drinks and food will be offered at Oak and Jacques-Imo's throughout the day.

There will also be a large grooming area. Six area pet groomers have volunteered to donate their services and will provide grooming services for a minimum fee that will be given to the humane society. For a minimum donation of $10.00, dogs can get a light hair-cut, a nail trim, and an ear cleaning. The grooming station will be held on the corner of Dante and Oak Street.

October 2010

Canine Deaths Raise Concerns Humane Society Requests Formation of K-9 Oversight Committee

(New Orleans, LA) -- In a letter recently sent to Superintendent Ronal Serpas, the Humane Society of Louisiana has outlined its reasons to form a citizen's K-9 oversight committee. If sanctioned by Serpas, committee members would be allowed to review canine medical reports and inspect their living quarters. The humane society is requesting the formation of the committee, in light of the high number of canine deaths attributed to police officers. Three trained police dogs, members of the K-9 unit, died while in officer's care during the past 24 months. A fourth dog, a family pet, died from malnutrition caused by his owner, who was a New Orleans police officer at the time.

According to the humane society, each of the deaths could have been prevented with better care, sensitivity and supervision. According to reports compiled by the humane society and other watchdog agencies, all the dogs died from simple neglect. For example, Carlos died from advanced heart worm disease. Phantom died after falling down an elevator shaft at Charity Hospital. A third dog, Primo died from heat stroke.

All the dogs' owners eventually faced legal consequences for their actions. Sergeant Randy Lewis was charged with malfeasance associated with Phantom's death, charges which were later withdrawn by the Orleans District Attorney's Office. Officer Jason Lewis, (no relation to Randy), recently pleaded guilty to cruelty to animals for allowing his dog, Primo, to die from cardiac arrest, after being locked in his vehicle last May. Former officer Nakia Adams, a ten-year veteran, resigned from the department earlier this year, after pleading guilty to cruelty to animals. Ms. Adams was charged with cruelty when one of her two dogs was found dead from starvation. Her other dog was severely underweight when picked up by St. John Animal Control workers.

"Obviously, there has been some gross oversight on the part of these officers, and their actions have led to the unnecessary suffering and death of animals, which does not reflect well on NOPD. Their deaths have become a serious concern both to our humane organization and citizens from around the country and world. Shortly after the story of Primo's death was broadcast, we heard from angered and concerned citizens from the U.S., Europe and Japan. We promised those citizens and our residents that we would not stand by and allow these deaths to go unnoticed. We collected signatures and sent a petition signed by more than 1,100 people to the Orleans District Attorney's office to investigate these alleged crimes, which they did. The district attorney's efforts secured the admission of guilt from officer Jason Lewis. However, we want to follow up with these legal proceeding by forming an effective "watchdog" committee whose job it will be to monitor the medical care, housing and treatment of all police service dogs," said HSL Director Dorson.

The group is awaiting a response from Superintendent Serpas.

September 2010

Pit Bull Barely Survives Street Fight - Canine Found with Multiple Bite Wounds

(New Orleans, LA) -- Cheri Deatsch, a local attorney and animal rescuer, recently came upon a friendly 2-year old male pit bull, who was living on the streets in the Eighth Ward. Cheri fed and watered the young dog for a few days and later made arrangements to get "Marigny," named after the street he lived on, in to a foster home.

However, the day before Marigny was scheduled to go to his new home, the friendly canine was found staggering the streets, barely able to walk - the victim, according to the Humane Society of Louisiana, - of a brutal dog fight. "We suspect that poor Marigny was used in several practice fights for long periods of time on either Friday or Saturday night. He was last seen Friday afternoon and then found with multiple bite wounds, infected lacerations, and serious injuries late Sunday.

After coaxing the injured and ailing Marigny into her car, Cheri contacted the Humane Society of Louisiana which arranged for him to be seen by Dr. Antoine Saaks, Director of the Animal Medical, located at 4800 Magazine Street. Marigny was examined and found to have multiple lacerations on the face (muzzle) and bite and puncture wounds on the front limbs and pelvic area. Marigny is also suffering from multiple intestinal and heart parasites.

"We hear that late night street fights are still a popular past-time in our city's high-crime areas. Based on the information we are receiving, it appears that illegal pit bull fighting, which was very popular before Katrina, is steadily returning to our city. We are encouraging residents to report all fighting activity to the proper authorities and call us to try and tend to the victims of the crime," says Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana.

The group will showcase Marigny at their anti-dog-fighting press conference, which will be held on Thursday, September 16th, starting at 2: 30 pm at the Animal Medical Center, located at 4800 Magazine Street. The Humane Society of Louisiana is also seeking donations to pay for the medical care of Marigny. Contributions, which are tax-deductible can be sent to P.O. Box 740321, New Orleans, LA 70174.

What: Discussion on resurgence of dog fighting in New Orleans

When: Thursday, September 16th, from 2: 30 to 3: 30 pm

Where: Animal Medical Center, 4800 Magazine Street, New Orleans

July 9, 2010
Contact Person: Jeff Dorson, HSL Director, 901-268-4432

Activist Files Police Report - Alleges BP Criminally Abused Animals

(New Orleans, LA) –The Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana, Jeff Dorson, filed a police report yesterday with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Department, alleging that BP violated several Parish ordinances hundreds of times since the April 20th blowout of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Rig. The report alleges that BP violated the parish animal cruelty codes and the ordinances that specifically prohibit the exposure of poisonous materials, the avoidance of mistreatment of animals, and the littering of waterways.

"I realize this is a modest legal action in light of the crisis, but I hope it has a significant impact.” Dorson says. “Every time we see an oil-covered animal and contaminants in the water we are witnessing a crime and it should be reported."

Dorson backed his claims with information he gathered on three visits to the barrier islands in Barataria Bay off Grand Isle. His photos of oiled birds and oil globs bobbing in the water, along with statistical counts of captured animals injured by oil and the number that subsequently died are included in the police report.

The claim will be reviewed by the Jefferson Parish District Attorney's Office where the decision on whether to prosecute will be made. If the matter is tried in court, hundreds of residents could be called to testify. Dorson says: “I hope they prosecute and allow us to testify in open court. We need to stand up for the tens of thousands of birds and animals who have been in harmed, killed, or displaced by this criminal activity," Dorson adds.

Established in 1988, The Humane Society of Louisiana is one of the state's largest animal protection agencies, with over 10,000 members and supporters. To tackle many of the issues surrounding the BP Deep Horizon oil spill, the group launched Operation Here to Help, which can be found on Facebook. For more information, please call 1-888-6-humane or visit www.humanela.org.

June 2010

"Renate" Named Humane Society of Louisiana's "Dog of the Year," German Shepherd Survives Neglect and Abandonment

(Crowley, LA) -- The Humane Society of Louisiana has named Renate, a three-year-old German Shepherd who almost died from neglect, the organization's 'Dog of the Year.' Renate, which means "reborn" in German, was found earlier this year locked inside her kennel at 1803 Albert Venable Road in Church Point, Louisiana. Her kennel mate, another German Shepherd, was found dead of starvation and dehydration next to her. Renate was extremely thin and barely alive when discovered by Janet Lyons, President of the Acadia Chapter of the Humane Society of Louisiana and the group's full-time volunteer investigator. Renate's previous owners, Mark and Cindy Wingate, abandoned their residence and their two dogs. Neighbors, alerted by the dogs' deteriorating condition, finally called the authorities, who discovered the scene. Local officials contacted Janet Lyons to help with their investigation.

After removing Renate from her kennel, Ms. Lyons immediately took the sickly canine to an animal clinic, where she was examined by a vet. Tests showed that besides being severely malnourished, Renate was also suffering from advanced heartworm disease. Renate had to be boarded at the veterinary clinic for several months, before she was healthy enough to undergo the heartworm treatment.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Mark and Cindy Wingate, and Renate is enjoying her new life on a 14-acre farm. "We wish to thank Janet Lyons for her quick response, and we wish to put the spotlight on Renate for all the suffering she and her kennel mate endured at the hands of her owners. This tragedy could easily have been prevented by making a simple phone call to the local animal shelter or by contacting any number of humane agencies. Instead, the owners simply locked the kennel doors and drove away, causing their dogs to endure weeks of suffering and the eventual death of one of their pets," says Jeff Dorson, HSL Executive Director. "For all that Renate endured and overcame, we are naming this special German Shepherd our Dog of the Year!' Renate will soon be sent a large ribbon, a basket-full of toys and treats, and a framed certificate.

The Acadia Chapter of the Humane Society, to help pay for Renate's medical care, has also opened up a special community anti-cruelty fund and is seeking monetary donations. Contributions, which are tax deductible, can be sent to the Humane Society of Louisiana, P.O. Box 697, Church Point, LA 70525. In the check memo space, please write "Renate's Fund."

News Release: May 18, 2010
Contact Information: Janet Lyons (HSL Acadia President) - 337-654-4392
Jeff Dorson, (HSL Director) 901-268-4432

Local Humane Society Combats Widespread Animal Abuse

The Acadia Chapter of the Humane Society of Louisiana has been working non-stop for several months, responding to reports of animal abuse in a tri-parish area: Acadia, St. Landry, and Evangeline Parishes. The group was established more than eight years ago and has investigated thousands of calls; however, in recent weeks, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of calls the agency has received. The group is very small, with only a handful of volunteers who respond to the calls and care for the surrendered or confiscated animals. Janet Lyons, a mother of five and who has received awards for her volunteer work in the past, heads up the local chapter and acts as the group's principle cruelty investigator. Ms. Lyons often works closely with law and code enforcement agencies to help enforce and uphold the local and state anti-cruelty ordinances and also has housed and nursed back to health thousands of injured and abandoned animals.

Ms. Lyons recently responded to two calls, which left an indelible impression, even on this seasoned investigator. First, Ms. Lyons responded to a call involving two German Shepherds who were abandoned by their previous owners. The dogs were left in their locked kennels at 1803 Albert Venable Rd, in Church Point, to fend for themselves. The previous owners, Mark and Cindy Wingate, simply abandoned the property and failed to relocate the animals or make any provisions for their future care. By the time a neighbor contacted an agency, it was almost too late. One of the confined canines was found dead in his cage, and the other was barely alive when found.

Now named "Renate," which means "reborn" in German, the sweet female German Shepherd weighed only 53 pounds, about 2/3 her normal body weight, when found. Renate apparently had not eaten in several weeks and was on death's door, when rescued. Renate was immediately transported to a veterinary clinic to begin her lengthly rehabilitation. Renate was also found to be suffering from advanced heartworm disease. During her stay at the vet clinic, Renate regained most of her weight, has begun her heartworm treatment, and is available for adoption to a loving and understanding home.

More recently, the group was asked to work with the Acadia Animal Control department, which responded to a complaint involving more than one dozen cats living in deplorable conditions. Upon inspection, 18 cats were found stuffed and living in rabbit cages at 336 1st Street, in a yard overgrown with weeds and next to a house full of trash and debris. Piles of feces of up to eight inches were found under each rabbit cage, and four to five cats were crammed into the cages, which space so tight that some of them could not even turn around.

The group vowed to save as many of the cats as they could, since they survived such horrible living conditions for so long. They felt that they owed the cats as much. Once removed, the 18 cats were bathed and examined by a local vet, who deemed them all savable. All were sterilized and some were treated for dental problems and respiratory diseases. The group has spent more than $1,000 on the cats to date. Eight of the cats have since been adopted, with the remaining cats still looking for homes.

The group has established an animal cruelty investigation community fund and is hopeful that caring individuals and businesses will help to replenish their empty coffers. All donations are tax deductible and contributions may be sent to P.O. Box 697, Church Point, Louisiana 70525. Checks and money orders should be made out to The Humane Society of Louisiana. In the check memo space, please write in "Acadia Chapter."

The Humane Society of Louisiana is the sponsoring agency of the Acadia Chapter, and is one of the largest animal protection agencies in the the state. The group is headquartered in New Orleans, operates a sanctuary in Tylertown, Mississippi, and oversees seven chapters throughout the state. For more information, please call 1-888-6-humane or visit www.humanela.org.

April 2010

Sheriff Deputies Shoot and Kill Owner's Dog Without Cause. Anguished Owner Plans to File Suit against Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office

(Metairie, La) - After watching a video on Youtube, explaining how to make a potato gun, 22 year-old Jordan Reimer and his friend, Josh DiMaggio, put one together and tested it. The first attempt on Thursday, March 25th, failed to fire. On Friday, March 26th,around 5: 00 pm they went outside again to test their contraption. They set up a target on their property, aimed, and fired the potato gun, which made a large bang. After the successful firing, Jordan and his friend went back inside.

Twenty minutes later, they heard another large bang and then another. There in Jordan's yard was a Jefferson Parish Sheriff's deputy standing in front of his dog, Sandy, a red-nosed pit bull, which was about three feet in front of him with his sidearm drawn. Neighbors apparently had called the police after hearing the discharge from the potato gun. The first two shots fired by the officer missed Sandy. Jordan yelled at the officer not to shoot his dog. He cried that his dog was harmless and wouldn't bite. The officer looked at Jordan and then looked back at the dog and proceeded to shoot him as the dog was turning to run away. The shot caused the dog to collapse in the yard. The bullet entered into Sandy's back, near her spine. The dog sat down, turned and looked at her shooter.

Sobbing, Jordan ran toward this dog, who was now bleeding profusely, and he cradled her in his arms. Sandy gasped three to four times and expired in his arms. Jordan cradled Sandy for the next 30 minutes, sobbing, holding her in his arms next to his chest. Jordan yelled for his mom and his friend Josh to get the badge names of the deputies involved in the shooting. All of them turned away or covered up their name tags. Josh, meanwhile, began to hyperventilate and suffered a debilitating panic attack, with his pulse raising to more than 270. Josh then had a seizure and blacked out. An ambulance was dispatched and Josh was taken to the hospital for treatment.

Jordan was asked by one of the deputies if he wanted to have the SPCA come over and take away the dog's body. Jordan said that he just wanted to bury his dog in his own backyard. He was told that he couldn't do that until everyone had left. A crime lab technician entered the property and took photos of the bloody and dead dog, flopping his body around, in order to take photos.

Before leaving, an officer said that he would be charged with a noise abatement violation and that the names of the investigating officers would be listed on his citation. With that, all the officers left the scene. No investigation was ever done, no questions were asked. A young man was simply left in his own yard holding his lifeless dog in his lap. Jordan was later told that Officer Shane Rivolo had answered the call and shot his dog to death.

"This is the epitome of a callous deputy and his fellow officers, poorly trained in dealing with barking dogs and the public. 50% of all households have pets, and dogs will bark at anyone entering their property, no exception. And, yet, we receive countless calls, just like this one, where police don't ask any questions, don't try to ask the owner to restrain their dogs, don't take any non-lethal, easy-to-use methods of calming down a barking dog, they simply draw they pistol, and kill family pets, leaving in their wake a nightmare for the family to deal with," says Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana.

The group intends to file a complaint with the internal affairs division of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office and will help Jordan prepare a lawsuit against Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office for the wrongful death of his dog and for the subsequent emotional distress and suffering caused to both Jordan and his friend Josh.

"I never thought that something this terrible would happen to me in my own home. I am devastated by all of this: how my wonderful and loving dog was shot to death in front of me, the course treatment of me and my family and friends by the police, and their total lack of sensitivity on every level. I still see Sandy's face as she lay dying when I wake up each morning," says Jordan.

What: Step-by-step review of the shooting of Sandy by Jordan Reimer, witness and Sandy's owner

When: Monday, April 5th, noon to 1: 00 pm

Where: A residence where shooting occurred, 2521 Elise, Metairie (near W. Napoleon)

April 2010

Humane Society of Louisiana Coordinates Supply Drive, Asks Community to Support Parish Animal Shelter

(St. Martinville, LA) -- The Humane Society of Louisiana is urging pet lovers and local residents to donate supplies such as pet food, stainless steel dog and cat bowls, cat litter, and pet treats and toys to their local shelter on Saturday, April 10th. The parish-wide collection drive is part of the Humane Society's Shelter Support and Appreciation Day, and the group intends to coordinate the supply drive four times a year.

"The St. Martin Animal Shelter provides a wide variety of programs and services on a shoestring budget," says Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana. "The annual operational budget barely covers their food bill, leaving very little room for additional purchases. But if community members start donating food, litter, and toys a few times a year, it will lower their costs and keep their high level of services intact. In fact, we probably will use this as a model to create a statewide Shelter Support and Appreciation Day, which will benefit all of our sheltering facilities throughout Louisiana. Therefore, I am hoping, that St. Martin leads the way in the development of this new and much-needed community-outreach program."

"We are pleased to support the fine work of the St.Martin Animal Shelter and the opportunity to work directly with Parish President Cormier, who recently toured the shelter with humane society representatives in December of 2009," adds Dorson.

Just recently the Humane Society of Louisiana was able to coordinate the delivery of an examination table from a hospital in LaPlace, purchased a mini-frig for the facility, and intends to present the parish with a check for $200.00, to be used for shelter improvements. The shelter also needs stainless steel cat cages, plastic dog houses, and outside kennels. Residents can drop off supplies from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M. or call to make different arrangements for the delivery of donated items. Schools and civic associations also are encouraged to collect or purchase items. Monetary gifts also can be given to the St.Martin shelter. To receive a tax deduction for financial contributions, checks or money orders must be made out to the Humane Society of Louisiana. In the check memo, please write "to support the St. Martin Shelter."

For more information, please call Monique Louiver at (337) 394-1220 or the Humane Society of Louisiana at 1-888-6-humane. For additional information on the Humane Society of Louisiana, please visit their website at www.humanela.org.

What: Shelter Support and Appreciation Day

When: St. Martin Animal Shelter, 1004 Industrial Park, St. Martinville

When: Saturday, April 10, 2010, 10 A.M. to 2 P.M.

April 2010

Medical Reports Confirm Public's Suspicions: Primo, Former NOPD Canine, Died From Heat Exhaustion.

What: Review of medical reports of Primo, confirming cause of death to be from heat stroke

Where: 816 Baronne Street, New Orleans

When: Wednesday, April 7th, noon to 1:00 pm

(New Orleans, LA) -- In mid-July of last year, the Metropolitan Crime Commission contacted the Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office and informed them that they had received confidential information pertaining to the death of Primo, a six- year-old Belgian Malinois, a member of the NOPD K-9 unit. According to MCC's sources, Officer Jason M. Lewis, Primo's handler, left the dog unattended in his police car on May 27, 2009, while Lewis was inside his Algiers home. Upon returning to his vehicle, Officer Lewis found Primo in severe distress. Primo had torn up the vehicle's seats and chewed the armrest trying to escape.

According to the internal reports gathered by the District Attorney's Office, Officer Lewis drove Primo to the Algiers Animal Clinic, located on General DeGaulle Avenue. While en route, Officer Lewis called the clinic and said that his dog was suffering from "heat stroke." According to the DA report, Officer Lewis told Dr. Gutter, "I left him too long."

According to the medical reports prepared by Algiers Animal Clinic, Primo arrived at their clinic with a 109+ temperature and, severe dehydration, and he was laterally recumbent and in respiratory distress with dilated pupils. After reaching a cooler temperature of 105, Primo was transported to Southeast Veterinary Specialists for further treatment and evaluation.

Notes taken at Southeast record that Primo was "left unattended in a vehicle earlier today." Primo suffered three seizures and finally died of cardiac arrest. Diagnosis by Dr. Heidi Cobb, the attending veterinarian, noted that Primo suffered and died from heat stroke.

Other medical reports reached the same conclusion. According to the LSU Vet School, dogs’ organs fail if their body temperatures exceeded 108.00 degrees Fahrenheit. Dr. Marci Miranov , formerly of the Jefferson Animal Shelter, also reviewed the medical reports and concluded: "I can tell you that, without a doubt, Primo died of DIC brought on by heat stroke." The same determination was also made by the Louisiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, which performed a necropsy and examined Primo's tissues. All the medical reports ruled out other causes of death.

An internal administrative investigation, conducted by NOPD, however, classified Officer Taylor' s actions as "NON SUSTAINED." This means that their investigation showed that the above-discussed findings could not be proved. It was noted by the District Attorney's Office that the vehicle used by Officer Taylor was never made available for inspection, which was supposed to have a backup system to keep the air conditioning unit running, but only if the ignition was in the "on" position.

Several months ago, Office Taylor was summoned to appear and give testimony before a Grand Jury. The jury, however, failed to indict Taylor, who remains on the force.

In light of the evidence, however, the Humane Society of Louisiana believes that Office Taylor's actions led directly to the suffering and subsequent death of Primo by overheating and that the criminal justice system and NOPD's Department of Internal Affairs have failed to adequately address this criminal act. To make the proper amends for the death of Primo, we are asking Officer Taylor to voluntarily repay the city for the cost of treating Primo at Southeast Veterinary Specialists the amount of $1,259.35, the cost of replacing Primo with another trained K-9 unit member ($5,000 - $8,.000), and pay for the damage to his police vehicle caused by Primo trying to escape ($1,500 estimate). Finally, the group asks that Officer Taylor requests for an immediate transfer to a different department. HSL believes that Officer Taylor is unfit to serve in the K-9 Unit.

Unfortunately, Primo is not the only K-9 unit member recently to have perished in the last few years while in custody of NOPD.

Below is a list of three known victims and their cause of death, from reports compiled by the Metropolitan Crime Commission:

1. May 27, 2009 Death of Primo by heat stroke

2. June 22, 2009 Death of "Fanthom" from falling down elevator shaft

3. 2 1/2 years ago (estimated time) Death of "Carlos" from heart worm disease

February 2010

Humane Society of Louisiana Recognizes Fire Station #24. Firemen Save Blind Walker Hound.

(New Orleans) - Last year, Lynn Moore and her husband Brian Budzinsi were walking their dogs and enjoying the sights near the Mississippi River, by the Industrial Canal locks. Upon returning home, the dogs were let off their leashes temporarily to run around the levees. Moments later, Lynn and Brian heard a splash and some whimpering. They counted their dogs and noticed that Huck was missing. Huck is an elderly blind Walker Hound, who has been a constant companion of Lynn and Brian for many years. They followed the sounds of the whimpering and peered down an open drainage pipe, whose cover had been removed and placed to one side. 10 feet down, they saw Huck, curled up and dazed by the fall.

In an email to the Humane Society of Louisiana, Lynn explains what happened next: " My husband called 911 while I joined all of the leashes together and, on my hands and knees, fished them to the bottom and lassoed him. I talked to him continuously so he wouldn’t try to wander off through an adjoining culvert."

Lynn adds, "Firemen from Engine #24 in the Bywater neighborhood responded within minutes. They couldn’t have been more professional or serious about the situation. Their teamwork was astounding, and they knew exactly what to do. Our dog came through the ordeal with only minor scrapes, thanks to them."

Soon Huck was rescued, safe, and comforted by Lynn.

"We are so grateful to members of Fire Station #24 and we wanted to show our appreciation. We contacted the Humane Society of Louisiana, who, after hearing of Huck's rescue, immediately agreed to confer a special plaque-- the group's Golden Heart Award, to members of the fire station. "We love hearing happy endings to these type of stories," says Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana, "and it was easy to see why Lynn and Brian wanted to honor these firemen. We are honored to be part of this award ceremony."

Besides presenting members of Station #24 with a plaque from the Humane Society of Louisiana, Lynn and Brian will also be presenting the firemen with a special cake.

What: Awards Ceremony Recognizing the Rescue of Huck by members of Fire Station #24.

Where: Fire Station #24, located at 1040 Poland Ave, New Orleans

Where: Saturday, February 27th, from 1 - 2: 00 pm

News Release: For Immediate Use
February, 2010

Humane Society 'Top Dogs' in Indy, New Orleans Support Their Teams with 'Shelter Bowl' Challenge

Contact persons: John Aleshire, CEO, Indianapolis Humane Society - 317.872.5650ext. 104
Jeff Dorson, Executive Director, Humane Society of Louisiana - 901.268.4432


(Miami, Florida) - The competition between New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts has both cities eagerly awaiting the outcome of Superbowl Sunday, and it has also spurned a newly developed rivalry between the cities’ animal shelters.

Jeff Dorson, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Louisiana, based in New Orleans, gamely visited the Indianapolis Humane Society and met with its CEO, John Aleshire, on Monday, February 1st to discuss general shelter operations and protocol. However, the discussions quickly turned to the larger question of which team would win the Big Game. To underscore the growing rivalry, Aleshire gave Dorson a present of a package of sugar cookies, decorated with the Indy logos. To show his gratitude, Dorson has given Aleshire a copy of the DVD The Crying Game, to remind him that the outcome of Sunday's game will probably disappoint him and his staff.

As the upcoming championship football game was discussed, the two shelter directors envisioned a second contest: this one played between both shelters. The resulting Super Shelter Bowl pits the two humane societies against each other in a race to raise the most funds by midnight Sunday, February 14th, Valentines' Day The contest is simple: society supporters and those wishing to show their support for their favorite football team can make a donation to either humane society on their websites or by sending in a contribution by mail. To count in the tally of the Super Shelter Bowl, donations sent by mail must be postmarked no later than Saturday, February 14th

The contest has already divided family loyalties within the Dorson family, which, like the Manning family, has ties to both New Orleans and Indianapolis. Having been born and raised in Bloomington, Indiana, Jeff Dorson moved to New Orleans in 1988, where he started the Humane Society of Louisiana and remains as its Executive Director. Roland Dorson, Jeff's brother, is the CEO and President of the Indianapolis Chamber of Commerce, a business acquaintance of Mr. Aleshire, and has rumored to have already pledged a contribution to the Indianapolis Humane Society.

"Having heard that my brother will be giving a donation to the opposing 'team', I did what any other sibling would do in such a situation, I ran and told my Mother," confessed Jeff, younger brother of Roland. "Unfortunately, my Mom is also a resident of Indianapolis, and was knitting a "Go Colts" scarf when I told her, so I am not sure if that will change the outcome. However, I am preparing myself for a good fight in this upcoming contest. Hurricane Katrina tossed us around a little in New Orleans, so I am confident that we can also take the Humane Society of Indianapolis' hot air," says Dorson, alluding to Mr. Aleshire boasts of performing well in this contest.