PETA investigates county shelter

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BY KRYSTIN E. KASAK
Krystin.Kasak@nwitimes.com
219.548.4353 | Thursday, June 26, 2008 | (87 comment(s))

VALPARAISO | Animals are no longer being euthanized at the Porter County Animal Shelter, but many people are questioning whether their current living conditions are any better.

Not only is the shelter dealing with overcrowded kennels, but many of the animals are sick -- with entire litters of kittens so ill their eyes are swollen shut and dogs suffering from constant wheezing known as "kennel cough." Numerous animals are housed in single cages.

Conditions at the shelter have drawn criticism from local residents and animal rights organization PETA.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals received complaints regarding the treatment of a severely injured kitten taken to the shelter. After investigating the situation, PETA officials could not obtain verification that the animal was treated in a timely fashion. The kitten may have sat in a cage with its injuries for up to four days, said Theresa Chagrin, PETA animal care and control specialist.

The caseworker who visited the facility also expressed concern regarding the conditions of the shelter.

"We are very concerned," Chagrin said. "Obviously these are upper respiratory diseases that are very contagious. Animals may be suffering or dying."

Shelter director Judy Bonaventura said animals have not died at the facility and many were brought in already sick.

Poor living conditions for animals are a common consequence of shelters that adopt no-kill policies too quickly, Chagrin said.

"We see this a lot," Chagrin said. "As long as you're having thousands of animals coming into your facility, you can't stop euthanizing them unless you're turning animals away -- in which case they die slowly and painfully -- or accepting them and overcrowding them."

Chagrin said the county should not focus on euthanization rates, but instead try to curtail the birth rate by making a significant push for spay and neutering.

"When your euthanization statistics become more important than the animals themselves, there is a problem," Chagrin said.

Residents hoping to assist the shelter also have run into problems. Valparaiso resident Ella Bell said she was "turned away" when inquiring about fostering a litter of sick kittens and paying for their veterinarian bills. Bell said she and her fiance have fostered animals before -- in Porter County as well as former residences -- and were trying to help with the overcrowding.

Bell said her offers to help clean the facility also were denied.

"We were told there was no cat litter," Bell said. "So we went to Wiseway and bought 150 pounds of it. Then we asked to brush the dogs and they said we couldn't because we hadn't gone through 'orientation.'"

Bonaventura said the situation never occurred and employees are scheduling home visits for those interested in fostering.

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To Hobart wrote on Jul 3, 2008 11:36 PM:

" It is not Valpo animal control , it is Porter County Animal Control .
Other than that good question . "

Concerned citizen wrote on Jul 3, 2008 12:06 PM:

" The termination of these 2 people certainly did not appear to be for just cause...JUST POLITICS. That is awful but here may yet be hope. If either or both end up committing a felony and are sentenced to serve their time at the Porter County jail, they could be back in a heartbeat. They LOVE the inmates at the shelter! The problem is that they are actually qualified which in the view of Mr. Harper and company, it would likely disqualify them from service. For now, it seems only unqualified people are welcome there. "

MW former PCAS officer wrote on Jul 3, 2008 10:28 AM:

" I'd like to say that I am terribly disappointed in the way the new director and Bob Harper terminated Offr Harbaugh and Asst. Redelman. I had suggested to the new director (via a mutual rescue friend who sought my advise) that a gentle guiding hand would be needed to break thru all the left over angst that has captivated PCAS throughout Ogles reign of terror. That they be understood and maybe re-trained alittle. Give them hope back. This was supposed to be a new dawn for PCAS staff and residence. I now see that like most animal controls acrossed Indiana and the country it is not about the animals but politics. It is not about serving and protecting the community and animals. It is about self serving politicians. Mr. Harper and Mr. Evans were less than helpful when I begged for help multiple times over my 4 1/2yr commitment to the PCAS. I am proud of (most) all that I worked with and am sorry to those that I failed during my long battles with Ogle. I hope for a solution. May this be Harpers last term to head the PC and PCAS and bring GOOD back to the community. "

GET REAL wrote on Jul 2, 2008 10:25 PM:

" Holy Moly. To listen to the hysterical rants of the current shelter board or Bob Harper and his Harpies, you would think the Porter Co. Animal Shelter was not adopting ANY pets at all.

The truth and the FACTS speak volumes - but the political aspirations and power hungry forces tend to gloss over those in favor of the more sensational attention grabbing headlines.

Harper - you spent absolutely no time in the shelter until a few months ago (Harpies too). YOu have no practical knowledge of how to run a shelter or handle the county needs.

You need to regain some sense of composure and see this for what it is and allow the people in the know and with a good heart back in to take over before more animals are put through horrific distress. "

Want to volunteer but... wrote on Jul 2, 2008 12:25 PM:

" I have to wonder the same thing about why the Hobart Humane Society seems to do a much better job running their shelter, with a smaller tax base. If they're allowing inmates in PC Animal Shelter, they need to change the volunteer forms with a disclosure that is signed that you acknowledge their presence. I have to think that even if you're a non-violent offender, that being imprisoned could potentially change one's state of mind to one of desperation. I, for one, would like more details on why they're doing time in the first place before I step foot in there. I'm not saying I won't volunteer. I just want to know what I'm dealing with first. "

Concerned citizen wrote on Jul 2, 2008 8:51 AM:

" Follow up to "are you serious." I was asonished to read in the 7/1 Times that Commissioner Harper is also a "Defense attorney" representing the teen "who is charged with causing her death last month by driving drunk and running her vehicle into a tree." (pps 3, 7). Do you see the irony here? Have a great summer with your child. The shelter used to be a great place for kids to come in the summer to have some fun with the animals. Now, you might need a stun gun and a taser just to walk in the door. "

To Hobart Resident wrote on Jul 2, 2008 8:07 AM:

" Two too many chefs trying to pretend they have animal experience. "

Facts wrote on Jul 2, 2008 8:05 AM:

" Everyone keeps saying a vet was on the old animal control board. She did nothing about Rusty......well, maybe she didn't KNOW about Rusty. A director has the ability to sweep anything she wants under the table and forget about it. A board is an advisory position. They have to be given the facts. I'm afraid this is continuing to happen, no one would have known about the suffering kitten had someone not gotten proof in pictures. Directors need to drop the power control and so does Harper. "

anti-peta lover wrote on Jul 2, 2008 8:04 AM:

" So I had a typo, so what...PETA is an organzation that does not even believe in having pets, and they have the ability at their main location in California to euthanize animals. They want all animals to run around free,without humans being able to take care of them. All they care about is money and lawsuits. These shelters are doing the best they can for animals. These shelters are over crowded, becuase people can't afford to take care of them anymore. They can't keep them forever. If PETA cared, they would donate money to make conditions better and to feed the animals,or just fix any problems themselves. "

Hobart Resident wrote on Jul 2, 2008 6:10 AM:

" Does anyone know why Valpo has so many problems when it comes to taking care of animals ? It seems every time I pick up the paper, they have another problem with animal care. "

Concerned citizen wrote on Jul 1, 2008 1:11 PM:

" To "are you serious." Well, I guess "volunteer" could not have said it better. They love the inmates! Cheap labor and you cannot beat their snazzy orange clothes. It sounds like a great place to spend the day with your young child. Geez, I wonder what those "safety reasons could be?" I would not be too concerned. "Volunteer" has got your back but "word up," don't have your child wear orange...wouln't want any confusion. Heck, you could do a double dip and volunteer to assist at the jail! That would be a great place to have your child mingle with even more of the prisoners! Valpo is becoming so chic! "

Volunteer wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:53 AM:

" Ok so we do have inmates working at the animal shelter now. They are a great help actually. But kids who are 14 to 17 can still volunteer but they have to have a parent with them...just for safety reasons. I don't think that is a big deal...I mean if you really want your child to volunteer you can make time in your schedule to come with them for an hour or two. The more volunteers the better! :D "

Are you Serious wrote on Jul 1, 2008 10:34 AM:

" So 14 and up can't volunteer now? I was just in there a few weeks ago with my niece who is 15 and now she can't volunteer because they have inmates there?!! Please give more information on this inmate situation. I'm not so sure that I feel safe going there with inmates running around. What's their deal? "

Re Animal Rescuer wrote on Jul 1, 2008 9:54 AM:

" why would the ASPCP care whats going on? American Society for Philosophy, Counseling, and Psychotherapy (ASPCP)

PETA cares, and the ASPCA: The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is also not a no kill organization. Ever watch animal planet and the animal cop shows they say right on the show animals are euthanized. "

Animal Rescuer wrote on Jul 1, 2008 8:11 AM:

" If the ASPCP,does not have a problem with this shelter, then why does PETA? "

Concerned citizen wrote on Jul 1, 2008 6:07 AM:

" To "volunteer," I hope you are at least 18 because now that Mr. Harper has enlisted Porter County inmates as kennel cleaners, the young girl scouts who used to be able to volunteer are off limits. 14 used to be the minimum age but with the orange clad inmates, that had to be changed. Too bad because many of these young girls were truly interested in the animals. Guess we need to do more for the inmates than the girl scouts in Mr. Harper's world vision. "

Announcement wrote on Jul 1, 2008 5:49 AM:

" "I think its really tacky that someone would contact PETA because they saw a sick animial, animals do come in sick,"

PETA was not called because there was a sick animal. PETA was called because a kitten with its eyeball OUT OF ITS SOCKET was left in a cage at the Shelter for THREE DAYS. An employee took it to a vet on Saturday, June 7th, despite the fact that she could not get permission to do so. As of June 11th, the eyeball was still in the same condition! No one seems to know what happened after that...the "current administration" just wants the subject to go away. "

Volunteer wrote on Jun 30, 2008 10:50 PM:

" I volunteer at the Porter County Animal Shelter and I absolutely love it! All the paper is trying to do is cause trouble. I know for a fact that we clean the dogs and cats cages EVERY day! The dog gets to run outside and the cats get attention too. They may be stuck in cages but its better than being homeless with no food or shelter...they would just die out in the wilderness. I think Judy is doing a great job..she seems to be such a nice lady and really cares for the animals. Everyone that is yelling about this should come and and take a look for themselves...its not that bad. We can ALWAYS use volunteers too. If you think its so bad...why why don't you come in and help us make it better! "

To One Vet opinion wrote on Jun 30, 2008 9:09 PM:

" You have some valid points , but appointing another Animal Welfare Board is NOT one of them . We went down that road , had a President of that board who was a Vet , the board and she did not do their jobs , starting with the Rusty case . I have to ask where was all this concern then ?? Commissioner Bob Harper is not perfect no doubt about it , but he is not the lone one at blame here . Think most of our hearts are in the right place , just disagree on how to handle this . More of the OLD SAME is not the way to go . "

cowgirlup wrote on Jun 30, 2008 12:45 PM:

" Nobody is disputing that sick animals don't come into a shelter. People were concerned because when sick or injured come into the shelter, it is the job of the Director and staff to ensure "PROPER care" of those that are sick or injured. Leaving an animal in a cage to suffer for days on end is inexcusable!! Putting an animal to sleep would be better than to let it linger and suffer!! "

Valpoite wrote on Jun 30, 2008 11:31 AM:

" I've also heard that those who've had interaction with Ms. Bonaventura while she was in Lake County have nothing but good things to say about her. Also-- why do we keep talking about Dominguez with regard to the PORTER animal shelter? Last I checked, David Lain is our sheriff. And from what I understand, it was because of the way that Sheriff Dominguez was treated when he went to the Lake County Animal to find a kitty for his granddaughter that things started to turn around for the better. They didn't know who he was and wouldn't allow him to look at the cats even though they were open for another 1/2 hour! I'd been to that shelter many many times and after Dominguez's experience there, he cleaned house and it improved by leaps and bounds as a consequence. I saw the improvements with my own eyes! "

Sweeties Family wrote on Jun 29, 2008 6:50 PM:

" To all who have negative comments in here about the new director. She is wonderful. To animal lover...judy came in and stirred things up. She isn't doing that...she is just getting things straightened out and cleaning up the mess that no one cared about. I adopted a dog from Lake County and it was a great experience from the kennel help to the office staff.
Judy you have done a great job in Lake County with the help of a wonderful staff. We love ALL that you do for these abandoned, abused animals and you do it with great compassion and a positive attitude. Keep up the good work....people will see a difference after while. "

Former Animal Control Officer wrote on Jun 28, 2008 10:05 PM:

" Okay so everyone seems to be on the right page. We know that several things that are going wrong with both Lake and Porter County Animal Controls. I think that there is one thing that some people are missing the point on with both these facilities. These are public safety offices. Not privately funded, non-profit organizations. We the taxpayers are responsible for close to 80 percent of the funding that goes towards caring for the animals. Also the officers employed by these shelters are responsible for enforcing the laws regarding animals and animal welfare. If the animals are not being cared for in the shelter, shouldnt the officers, shelter workers, and director being charged accordingly to the appropriate violation? What it comes down to is that if Ms. Bonaventura, Mr. Harper, or even Sheriff Domingez want to have a no-kill shelter, dig deep into your own pockets to fund such a facility. Use the taxpayers dollars accordingly to improve patrols for neighborhoods with nuisance animal problems, improved facilities to accomodate animals accordingly, training for shelter workers and animal control officers and this includes euthanasia certification. Your focus should be on public safety! "

Laura wrote on Jun 28, 2008 12:01 PM:

" I go in the porter shelter several times a year. I have adopted two cats from them and have always encouraged others to go to porter to adopt. I love the no kill policy that they have. Personally I think that they do a wonderful job with the resources that they have. I think its really tacky that someone would contact PETA because they saw a sick animial, animals do come in sick, does the whiner think that they should reject the sick ones so they feel better when they go in? Perhaps they should go thru the necessary training to volunteer to help instead of causing problems for a system that does indeed care. I dont beleive that they were refused any opportunity to help...if one was offered at all.
REMEMBER its up to the county to proves the funds necessary for the shelter to grow with the ever increasing surrounding populas. So PETA get your information right, and tell the whiner to do some research. "

To Val wrote on Jun 28, 2008 9:38 AM:

" I don't think it's just the issue of spay and neuter. I think it's the issue of care. People adopt these animals, cats for example and they find out the cat is going outside of the box. Instead of trying to fix the problem with different litters, cleaning the area properly after such incident has occured, or even just cleaning the box more often they would rather just get rid of the animal. If you adopt, unless the animal becomes dangerous or aggressive then you should try everything in your power to correct the problem before giving up.
Just like children they have their diffierent personality quirks, and you can't just dump your kids off at some shelter. "

Thought wrote on Jun 28, 2008 9:30 AM:

" Makes you kind of wonder why a commissioner would dissolve an animal control board. Doesn't sit well. Is Mr. Harper a veterinarian? A good DVM is needed to direct ANY animal in distress. Did he even think about that? "

one vet opinion wrote on Jun 28, 2008 8:14 AM:

" I have seen alot of comments in here about veterinarians stepping up. Well I have volunteered alot of time and resources, and it was not appreciated once Harper took over. I did not agree with all of his changes and in turn my services were not needed anymore. I think alot of veterinarians in the county may feel the same way. Every vet in the county provides low cost spay and neuter for animals adopted from the PCAS. In turn they all are donating time and money to the shelter. I also know of veterinarians who have tried to help out with the situation and have been turned away, due to their feelings toward the way Haper is running the shelter. I fully agree that the commissioners NEED to reinsitute the board: NO ONE PERSON SHOULD BE ABLE TO CONTROL THE SHELTER. That is why the situation has gotten this bad. "

How wrote on Jun 28, 2008 6:02 AM:

" How do you fix this deplorable situation with NO animal control board to control a commissioner who know not what he does? There has to be a checks and balances for all the problems that exist. To say you're NO KILL is not the solution Mr. Harper!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

Union Twp . Resident wrote on Jun 28, 2008 1:13 AM:

" This problem is a reflection of our society, we discard animals like we discard trash . We are teaching our children this is acceptable behavior and the problem continues to grow. A no kill shelter is a good thought but not sure it is feasible one . The building that houses Porter County Animal Control is the same size it's been for years while our County continues to grow . Some of our past practices at PCAC have taken resources that could have been used to enlarge & improve the building . One being euthanizing animals that Porter County and non Porter County residents brought in because they did not want to pay their own veterinarian to do it . PCAC should not be in the business of euthanizing your old /sick /unwanted animals if you have the resources take responsibility for your own . Many of the dogs at PCAC have a similar story " Owner moved cannot take the dog with them ,or owner moved to a no pets allowed apartment" .
Do NOT bring an animal in to your life until you have the resources to commit to them for LIFE . "

sheriff roy demonstrates AGAIN... wrote on Jun 28, 2008 12:39 AM:

" ...that he is unfit for the job... "

Valpo Rez wrote on Jun 28, 2008 12:32 AM:

" One person cannot and did not create the problem we have at the Porter County Animal Shelter . There is plenty of blame to go around, starting with a previous director and animal welfare board not doing their job. Having said this , let's stop the finger pointing and come up with some solutions .
We have another problem to combat here , since many people have a low opinion of PETA and think they are extreme is some of their thinking.
Caught in the middle of all this are the poor animals . "

val wrote on Jun 27, 2008 10:49 PM:

" If people understood how important it is to spay/neuter their pets, we wouldn't run into these problems. Don't breed while homeless die. Spay and Neuter. "

nva wrote on Jun 27, 2008 10:46 PM:

" Its totally understandable what the shelter is going through. A no-kill shelter everyone runs too, being overcrowed and not having enough profit,and to drop off their unwanted animals. A kill shelter does have higher euthanisia rate but they also do care for animals until they also found homes. Just the word no-kill to kill makes a big difference. but does everyone really know the difference?? Do people know that no-kill shelters do still enuthanize severly sick of aggressive animals? Look up your research. "

the best dogs come from animal shelters wrote on Jun 27, 2008 8:14 PM:

" The best dog we ever had came from the Hobart animal shelter. She was the smallest of her siblings. Wish we still had her but she lived a long and happy and loving life with us and brought us much joy. She was spayed and didn't need puppies to make her happy.
ADOPT A puppy save a LIFE "

SAVE AN ANIMAL FROM DEATH ROW ADOPT wrote on Jun 27, 2008 8:03 PM:

" please save an animal from Death row Adopt an animal "

euthization is wrong except for ill or extremely violent animals wrote on Jun 27, 2008 7:59 PM:

" it is wrong except in the case for everly ill animals or extremly violent animals that cannot be re-habilitated.
People should be responsible and spay and neuter their animals. Animals don't need to reproduce to be happy and fulfilled. "

Stephanie wrote on Jun 27, 2008 7:33 PM:

" My fiance said he wrote on here but it didn't get submitted. In June of 2006 we adopted a wonderful cat from the Porter Shelter. We were LUCKY we had got her at the right time as well because a month later we had read in the newspaper that they had to put all of their cats to sleep because of some illness that spread. I understand the euthanizing part in the sense the animal is deathly ill...however if you read in previous articles about the shelter that they put cats to sleep that aren't going in the litter box. And like I have stated before in previous articles...did it ever dawn on people that a cats instinct is to mark their territory? I am just glad that my fiance and I got our cat (proudly named June-Bug now and she is so beautiful and healthy!) before things REALLY got out of hand there like it is now. "

Porter Resident wrote on Jun 27, 2008 4:25 PM:

" I do not know about anyone else, but this entire matter has left me feeling both embarrassed and angry.

The county commissioners have gone too far. The information is too damning and it is time to reagin control.

How does Bob Harper sleep at night? He simply changes the ordinances to fit his ideals. He runs ramshod over the entire county with his own quest to be in control.

The shelter is in trouble. How many other county agencies are in similar troubles with Bob Harper's influence and misguided ideas?

I am not sitting idly by. The time to act is now. "

jre wrote on Jun 27, 2008 1:28 PM:

" They haven't used bleach in a month, so she must have adopted a long while ago. Here's a clue, if there were inmates in bright orange, it was recent. "

cowgirlup wrote on Jun 27, 2008 1:01 PM:

" Grateful Pet Owner wrote on Jun 26, 2008 12:59 PM:
" I adopted 2 wonderful dogs from Porter Co. animal shelter and have NO COMPLAINTS

WHEN DID YOU ADOPT YOUR PETS? JUST CURIOUS. "

Sharon wrote on Jun 27, 2008 9:53 AM:

" I am delighted that PETA has turned its eye toward the Porter County Animal Shelter. It has brought much needed attention to the situation. Whether for or against PETA, it doesn't matter. Just please help the animals. They shouldn't have to suffer because people argue over issues. Just please help the animals. Publicize where people can call or visit to volunteer to help or foster or both. Open the doors to the publics heart. Just please help the animals! "

Announcement wrote on Jun 27, 2008 6:34 AM:

" And when you call or email the Commissioners...ask them what happened to the Kitten? Was it euthanized? Did the poor thing finally receive surgery? Or is its eye still in the same pathetic condition as it was 6 DAYS after arriving at the Shelter? "

Deep Throat wrote on Jun 27, 2008 6:00 AM:

" We are all animal lovers. We truly are. The fact some people express their love for animals by not allowing euthanasia is juxtiposed with the fact that the suffering and misery and eventual gruesome death is there.

They do not want to see it from any perspective other than NO-KILL. So you look deeper into that position and really try to see the "why". Well the only answer is the political motivations and the feel-good attitude these people have. So much so, they become illogical and wreckless. That behavior has given rise to some hot emotions on the other side. Taking people who have worked without much appreciation, remuneration or just plain kindness and telling them to their face "you are killing and killing is bad" stirs people up at the most basic core. WHY the hostility from Harper? It is back to the sheer fact his drive for power is intoxicated him and he has lost his way.

Sound-bites aside. The health and welfare of the animals and the people of Porter County are in great danger. The articles and chatter will stir it up. "

FutureVet wrote on Jun 26, 2008 8:26 PM:

" It's nice to see all the positive comments. I just hope there is a little less talk and alot more action. There is no reason why local veterinarians in our area can not donate there time and do a few spay and castrations each month. The veterinarians are the one's with the skills that are needed. It's a problem with society and they are technically public health servants. Come on vets set a good example for those that are wanting to be vets and those that are in the process of doing so. Donate some time. It will make you feel good about yourself!

On the other hand those that support Judy....I have heard that her own farm is less than to be desired! I am sure she loves animals and wants to help them but judging from what I have heard, the shelter is turning into what her farm looks like!
Also, someone from Lake County said that she releases alot of uncastrated and unspayed female cats on her own personal farm in Lake County! Now that's really helping keep the population numbers down! "

Announcement wrote on Jun 26, 2008 7:19 PM:

" The Commissioners normally meet on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. The next scheduled meetings should be July 1st and July 15th, at the Porter County Ad Center at 6pm. I encourage all those commenting to both attend those meetings AND call or email each of the Commissioners personally. "

Cowgirlup wrote on Jun 26, 2008 5:30 PM:

" Here is the problem and having prior shelter experience in IN and running a city/county shelter. Firstly - a board needs to be put back in place. No one person (Harper) should have say so over all. PERIOD.
Secondly, while no kill is a great concept - there are other aspects which go into being 'no kill'. Developing a spay/neuter clinic for residents who maybe cannot afford the full price but want their pets fixed. Do that and you will in 2-3 yrs see a 'real' difference. You cannot house every animal without support from your community so start listening to them, their concerns and stop blowing them off Harper!! Have a public meeting where the public can come and speak their concerns and you can take their constructive criticisms. People can work together for a common goal, but not when shelter staff isn't doing their jobs right and your tax dollars pay their salaries!! Animals should not suffer. A shelter 'should be' a better place than the bad home, the street, etc. Obviously not the case here! "

Valpo Man wrote on Jun 26, 2008 4:24 PM:

" Oh my my my. This is really getting ugly. I wonder if KING HARPER has any regrets turning to the no-kill idea for his political talking points.

PETA is making very good points and highlighting the facts without hostility is best.

We can fix this - if we try "

pet lover wrote on Jun 26, 2008 3:05 PM:

" Well Well, It has taken only 5to 6 weeks for this Bonaventura woman to come in and make a mess of the porter county shelter. In the past it was clean and the amimails were healthy. This is no longer a shelter but a place to warehouse animals. Animals have been taken from the public when kept in these conditions, why is it ok for the county to house them this way? "

Valpo Rez wrote on Jun 26, 2008 2:00 PM:

" PS: To The Times and its writers-- Thank you for continuing to cover this story and keep it in the forefront. This is the ONLY way that the issues are going to be resolved at the shelter and I hope you stay on top of this and continue to expose what is going on there! "

hmm wrote on Jun 26, 2008 1:13 PM:

" "food for thought" is on the right track, but if they had a shiny huge building with the same employees, would you feel comfortable. If they let them be neglected now, why not later "

sloshylin hater wrote on Jun 26, 2008 1:06 PM:

" Do you like hot dogs that much to allow cruelty to pigs to eat one. What's your complaint, is it about PETA or the love of hot dogs. Now that's like a dogs food aggression. "

Grateful Pet Owner wrote on Jun 26, 2008 12:59 PM:

" I adopted 2 wonderful dogs from Porter Co. animal shelter and have NO COMPLAINTS. Both of my dogs were healthy and in cages by themselves. The facility both times I was there smelled of bleach and they had several staff/volunteers cleaning other areas. While I personally don't like that animals have to be euthanized, I do understand the need for it in a situation like Porter Co. is in. That facility is not set up to house a bunch of animals, it's just not realistic. I personally am grateful that the shelter does the good job it does and am glad I was able to get both of my dogs from them. "

jt harbaugh wrote on Jun 26, 2008 12:57 PM:

" I just want to know what is happening to the kitten with the bulging eye. If the vet that has him is reading this, please do what's best immediately, or talk to other vets about what's best, that's all. "

KATHY wrote on Jun 26, 2008 12:53 PM:

" The residents of Norfolk, VA were not very happy when PETA moved there. I lived there at the time.

PETA protested the Oscar Mayer Wiener Mobile at a grocery store auditioning for kids to do their jingle. PETA had members and kids out there in the parking lot in pig heads carrying picket signs. "

Turned Politcal wrote on Jun 26, 2008 12:40 PM:

" What did you expect when Commissioner Bob decided to involve himself, his fellow commissioners, and his political cronies in a matter in which he (and they) have NO practical experience? While he pandered to the bleeding hearts in his political base, he made a bad problem worse. Even the Lake County pol he imported to run the place can't fix this one. I can only hope the newspapers and PETA pay CLOSE ATTENTION and prevent him from "spinning" this one and making it someone else's fault. "

in wrote on Jun 26, 2008 12:12 PM:

" This shouldn't be a huge surprise, PETA's been trying to send letters and speak to the commissioners for OVER 1 MONTH, but no luck. This article was their 2nd step. So for anyone to say that the people should of made suggestions to improve or volunteer (which obviously from the article, it is amazingly difficult to even after giving money and donations), was Harper going to listen? "

G Davis wrote on Jun 26, 2008 12:06 PM:

" PETA brings alot of good things to the publics attention. They have stopped barbaric pratices at different locations.It is a shame that these poor creatures have to live like they do. I hope that the cat in the photo will find a good home it is horrable that this poor thing has to live like that.Then people wonder why animal diseases jump to humans. Hopefully they can get this straightend out quick and get these Animals the help they need, They don't have anything or anybody else! "

harperscrazy wrote on Jun 26, 2008 11:36 AM:

" I SUPPORT THIS 100%. PLEASE EVERYONE, JUMP ON BOARD!!! BEST IDEA YET "FOOD FOR THOUGHT!!!"
Food for Thought wrote on Jun 26, 2008 11:08 AM:
" So why don't us citizens of PC start a fund raising campaign to build a larger facility? Forget Bob, start a trust with one of the local banks (keeping the $ out of the hands of the politicans)and get moving on this. We know we need a better facility for these animals....period! " "

harperscrazy wrote on Jun 26, 2008 11:32 AM:

" told ya wrote:
" Too bad Harper needs a hearing aid. He should have ASKED and then LISTENED to people who have been involved with shelters and animals their whole lives. It sure didn't take Bonaventura long to turn PCAS into Lake Co. She's even staffed it with her "lakies". Are there no concerned Porter County citizens out there? Is there no one from Porter even interested in working at the shelter? Wonder how many applied? It's just too bad the phrase"no kill" has turned into "no care" also. Never thought it would happen so quickly. "

It's funny that you bring up the idea of PC citizens being interested in working at the shelter! There have been at least 4 PC citizens that tried to submit their resumes and were turned away. They were told that resumes were not being accepted at ANY time. So, how did Bonaventura get her resume in there? Hmmm, could it be a connection with Harper by chance?
There is also another problem. People who are only reading and not seeing, are blaming ALL the past shelter employees for the problems that exist today. This is not fair. "

Portage Res. wrote on Jun 26, 2008 11:21 AM:

" So where are all the do-gooders who were picketing the Puppy Palace in Portage last week? Why aren't you concerned over something that is a real problem? These animals NEED HELP! "

worried wrote on Jun 26, 2008 11:10 AM:

" The mistake isn't going no kill, the mistake is not admitting when it doesn't work in your community. It is time to open your eyes and see that we have to go back to the old way, for it is truly more humane. Get rid of this woman and find someone who knows what they are doing and has the presence of mind to do what is truly best for the animals. What happened to the PCAS? "

Food for Thought wrote on Jun 26, 2008 11:08 AM:

" So why don't us citizens of PC start a fund raising campaign to build a larger facility? Forget Bob, start a trust with one of the local banks (keeping the $ out of the hands of the politicans)and get moving on this. We know we need a better facility for these animals....period! "

jersey girl wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:40 AM:

" The fired and the soon-to-be fired should be proud no matter what happens to you. I say, let them threaten and fire you, then get another job and volunteer your off time in helping this and other shelters straighten up. You've done well, and I truly believe your an excellent asset to the animal community. Be proud "

Hmmm... wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:39 AM:

" Maybe those people who decided that they needed to picket the Puppy Palace in Portage last week for no reason, should start picketing the animal shelter...it seems like the dogs are in worse condition there at the shelter. Since those people have so much time on their hands and all... "

told ya wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:37 AM:

" Too bad Harper needs a hearing aid. He should have ASKED and then LISTENED to people who have been involved with shelters and animals their whole lives. It sure didn't take Bonaventura long to turn PCAS into Lake Co. She's even staffed it with her "lakies". Are there no concerned Porter County citizens out there? Is there no one from Porter even interested in working at the shelter? Wonder how many applied? It's just too bad the phrase"no kill" has turned into "no care" also. Never thought it would happen so quickly. "

petlover wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:32 AM:

" I don't think PETA in Virginia would be looking at a little towns animal shelter unless there was some hard evidence. Plain and simple, it was investigated and some truth was found, so they proceeded with it. PETA handles ALOT of cases (thousands, look on website), so for them to look at this is HUGE. If I know PETA, it's not over until every animal is safe. I mean months and years. "

read before typing wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:26 AM:

" "taxpayer", I think you misunderstand what PETA is about. The ETHICAL treatment of animals. Nowhere does it say that they want to save and "warehouse" any animal. The animals should be treated humanely until they cannot be anymore, then they must be euthanized, sad, but ultimately true. If you can't stand to hear it, please turn your back to this issue. Please look at their site and get back with me. "

Gail wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:22 AM:

" The interesting thing about PETA is that they are not directly responsible for saving many animal lives themselves. They don't have shelters, I believe they save between 1000-2000 animals a year, whereas the HSUS and animal shelters across the country are responsible for millions. But someone does need to step in and investigate conditions and offer help on how to improve things. First thing that a no-kill shelter should do is implement an effective spay/neuter program that reaches out to the community.

I understand Judy's requirement for home visits before handing out foster animals, unless she is being ridiculous about it. It's not unusual for shelters to require volunteer training. It shows a committment on the side of the volunteer, instead of someone walking in and just wanting to play with puppies. Running a shelter is a thankless business, and I have no doubt that the people managing this shelter are making many mistakes along the way, let's just hope that they learn from them. "

cat lover wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:12 AM:

" line em up and knock em down. that will fix it "

Adopt Some Yourself.... wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:04 AM:

" The current state of affairs at PCAS illustrates what happens when well-meaning pet lovers choose to let emotion and sentiment supercede reason and common sense. Chaos and disease has ensued in recent weeks at PCAS-- to the clear detriment of the animals--and power stuggles continue between ex-Board members, the old "regime", and politician(s) who's true motive in usurping day-to-day operational authority from the former directors remains unclear.
It's time to stop the finger-pointing and the name-calling and get back to the business of the shelter in the first place: animal control services for Porter County...we'd like to believe and insist that it is HUMANE animal control. For those folks who believe that there is a responsible(if not loving and permanent) home for EVERY animal that languishes in shelters in the US or for every stray pet that has been cast aside to fend for itself, do the math. For those folks who think that there is something honorable about inflicting pestilence of disease on uninfected (and potentially adoptable) animals by housing them in crowded and stressful conditions with contagious,sick animals for their stated purpose of saving them ALL..REALITY CHECK time. "

wrote on Jun 26, 2008 10:01 AM:

" Could someone translate what "I white" is saying. I would try to sue PETA, there so little and uneducated? Thats my sarcasm for the day. "

Oregon wrote on Jun 26, 2008 9:42 AM:

" To: NWINcitizen.... I think Oregon is still an assisted suicide state... "

Taxpayer wrote on Jun 26, 2008 9:36 AM:

" The best option for some of these animals is to put them down. It is the humane thing to do. I have done this for three of my dogs in the past 10 years (I own multiple dogs). But, if PITA is so interested in keeping all these animals alive, I wonder if PITA is willing to put forth the money to feed and shelter all these animals they don't want to kill. It's always easier to make these suggestions when it's "other people's money." To PITA I say put up or shut up. "

kathy wrote on Jun 26, 2008 9:12 AM:

" I've known Judy Bonaventura for a long time. Her entire life she has helped sick and injured animals, some of which she has nursed back to health herself. She truly loves animals. "

it is interesting wrote on Jun 26, 2008 8:41 AM:

" It is interesting that someone can be so ignorant to the fact that the shelters are over crowded because people buy from pet stores instead of adopting. When they get tired of their pet store pet they dump it at a shelter-- kennel cough is a result of over over crowding, over crowding is caused by people choosing not to adopt. "

NWINCitizen wrote on Jun 26, 2008 8:29 AM:

" Euthanization is not the answer!

Stop regarding animals as a disposal commodity like McDonald's, a car, a worn shirt, or garbage.

Humans are animals. We are no different except WE believe we are a higher form of life because WE can destroy what we make, talk, and show "intelligence."

Imagine how we look when we clubbed each other and was more primitive.

If euthanizing is so peaceful, then why isn't this treatment allowed for people?

To euthanize a healthy animal or one who can can be brought back into health is simple another form of extermination. Like a cockroach or an ant. Plain and simple!! "

Animal Lover wrote on Jun 26, 2008 8:23 AM:

" Ms. Chagrin is correct. I hate to admit it but Peta stepping in and making this statement I have to agree with them. Never thought this would be... "

Animal Lover wrote on Jun 26, 2008 7:31 AM:

" It si very sad that everyone is so quick to pass judgement before they know the story, real story. Aren't the animals suppose to come first? If things aren't going like you think help out, give ideas, work with each other. Stop making trouble and help solve troubles! At least someone is trying to make a change for the better. It can not happen over night. They need a bigger building, better cages, supplies, a place to separate the sick from the well. Let's work for the animals and stop trying to "get at someone". "

DISPATCHER wrote on Jun 26, 2008 7:29 AM:

" THIS IS SICK. I HOPE PETA CAN HELP THESE ANIMALS. I HATE TO SEE ANIMALS "PUT TO SLEEP" BUT IT IS MUCH MORE HUMANE THEN LETTING THEM SUFFER. NO KILL IS NOT ALWAYS THE BEST ANSWER. "

jt harbaugh wrote on Jun 26, 2008 7:27 AM:

" Everybody who told me to shut up and be happy to have a job, no thanks to you. I'ts too late to help the little kitten, but this feels like we've helped the future animals. Thanks MB from Peta for everything. Thanks to Maryanne for not comprimising your morals and principles even though you have a lot to lose. "What we accomplish is so small compared to the effort we put into it, but we have to see this as a total movement towards providing our unspoken companions with a safe, happy and painless life no matter where they live. Thanks to JP, SH, KH, JM, MB and "little spy girl", your boyfriend would be proud! "

FutureVet wrote on Jun 26, 2008 7:26 AM:

" Yeah it really looks like Porter County has everything under control! Those poor animals! That is disgusting! I am sure the new director is going to deny everything! What is she doing in there? What is the point of having animal control? I think those poor animals would have a better chance defending themselves in the wild! I like how they say they are a no kill shelter! To me, it sounds like those animals are entering the gates of hell!
Disagree with me if you want. But what positive thing can you pull from that situation? If you do support the shelter you might want to get help because you have some serious denial issues! That is not a way any animal should be living! Animal control presses charges against people who make animals live in those conditions. Why is it ok for Animal control to do this? Because they can? Bob Harper, wake up and smell the cat urine! "

Jennifer wrote on Jun 26, 2008 7:23 AM:

" Bonaventura is a snake in the grass. She pulled the same crap at lake county when she was "in charge" of adoptions there. When is PETA going to check Lake County out. I'm glad PETA has stepped in. I'm sick and tired of hearing people boohooing about euthanizing animals, but they've never seen a sick animal sit in a cage for months on end. When did THAT become more humane??? "

l white wrote on Jun 26, 2008 7:10 AM:

" PETA investigates? Where do they get off investigating anyone. Read the articles of the patriot act. You will find what the punishment is for giving aid to subversive organizations, such as ALF and others. "

dunno wrote on Jun 26, 2008 7:05 AM:

" Hey folks. Thank all of this mess to Bob Harper. The fact is, this guy is actually trying to micro manage the shelter hmiself. He is obsessed with this cat thing. The PETA people who are in some circles considered crazy activist are condemming Harper's actions.
This is his managment style. Why listen to others? This mess has truly been caused by Bob Harper. Nobody else. "

Interesting.... wrote on Jun 26, 2008 6:17 AM:

" Maybe, just maybe all the people saying adopt, adopt, adopt over buying from a pet store should read this. Kennel cough? very interesting. "

dr.rob wrote on Jun 26, 2008 5:35 AM:

" I would have to say this is the beginning of what will become a very bad situation. It appears as if something must be done and done quickly. We need to save the animals from suffering. "

Rick Bieniak wrote on Jun 26, 2008 2:17 AM:

" As a former animal control officer who ran a shelter, I can aggressively say that euthanization done properly is a painless and peaceful way for the animal to be put down. However, like Ms.Chagrin says, the real solution to the problem is to have a good spay and neuter program in place. "

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