National Study shows Maine's Animal Cruelty Laws Among Toughest in the Nation
The Animal Legal Defense Fund, based in California, has been compiling
statistics on state animal cruelty laws for years. In 2010, Maine
ranked second best in the nation!
In Maine, animal abusers can face felony charges, go to prison, be
forced to give up their animals, pay restitution, veterinary costs and
boarding fees, face mandatory counseling, and most importantly, could be
banned from owning animals ever again.
Maine animal advocates and the Animal Legal Defense Fund agree that
Maine should not rest on its laurels. There is more work to be done and
animal advocates would like to see better enforcement of the existing
laws. That, of course, would require more resources for the underfunded
Animal Welfare Program in Augusta. The program, under Norma Worley's
direction since a major overhaul in 2000, has made significant progress
and inroads. Complaints are on the rise as Mainers become more aware of
potential abuse, and become increasingly aware of the Animal Welfare
Program and its investigative capabilities.
To view the ALDF full report online:
2010 State Animal Protection Laws Rankings