SJI Animal Task Force
Posted March 13, 2014 at 5:56 am by Tim Dustrude
Left to Right: Jaime Ellsworth, Jennifer Rigg, Allison Lance, Kim Koon, Jan Murphy – Contributed photo
Kim Koon, (2nd from right in photo) Director of Investigations and Rescue OPS for Pasado’s Safe Haven in Sultan visited Friday Harbor on Saturday to meet with members of San Juan Island’s ATF, Animal Task Force, to discuss ways in which to effectively intervene and deal with cases of animal neglect and abuse here on the island.
The San Juan Island Animal Task force was formed in late 2012 to address several known cases of abuse and neglect here, involving both farm and companion animals. As San Juan County does not have an animal control officer as part of the Sheriff’s Department, a group of concerned citizens formed the group to find ways to legally and effectively find solutions to cases where animals are in imminent need of rescue due to lack of proper food, shelter or water.
Koon met with ATF members to discuss ongoing cases as well as Washington State Animal Control Laws and pending legislation that addresses issues regarding animal health and safety. In her role at Pasado’s Safe Haven, Kim has jurisdiction over the entire state of Washington to assist law enforcement agencies in animal cruelty cases. She has offered to serve as a resource here in San Juan County when need arises.
Koon also gave the group guidelines on “Body Condition Systems”, a method of determining if a specific type of animal is within the proper weight range and body mass index. The group also discussed the legal area that can be designated per animal by square foot and acreage among other related topics.
ATF member, Jan Murphy said, “One way that the community can help ease the suffering of animals is to report abuse or neglect when you see it.” Reports can be made to the Sheriff’s Department at 378-4151, or to ATF directly by calling the Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor at 378-2158.
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Categories: Around Here
3 comments:
3 comments...
Hello!
How can one become involved… volunteer if needed with these ladies and their great cause?
I would like to make myself available if needed…
Thank you!!!!
Cher
I would also like to be on the Task Force.
If you’re interested in being on the task force, contact me at 298-2195.
Jan
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