Letter: Plan should be put in place to save dogs

To the editor,

I am writing regarding the process for closing Braveheart Rescue, Inc. (“Braveheart”). Thomas Cole proposed a reasonable plan to Marshan Township regarding closing Braveheart and saving the lives of all the dogs currently residing there.

The Marshan Township Board (“the Board”) summarily dismissed Mr. Cole's plan. Upon information and belief, George May, the town attorney, wrote: “Mr. Cole; the Marshan Board made its decision.” This decision greatly concerns me! As an animal advocate and foster, I feel it is important to emphasize that Mr. Cole's plan is focused on saving the lives of all the dogs at Braveheart. It is clear in the plan what will be required of Braveheart to make this happen: temperament assessments for each dog, rehabilitation plans for each dog, mandated weekly progress reports for each dog, etc. Mr. Cole offered to do all the monitoring so the Board wouldn't have to and to keep them informed weekly. Mr. Cole has the experience with dogs to know when updates are accurate, whereas lay people may not.

Additionally, the Board has the leverage to force Braveheart to comply. Upon information and belief, the county opted not to investigate formal complaints against Braveheart. The alleged intentional abandonment of Strong Heart and alleged subsequent cover-up could have elevated misdemeanor animal cruelty charges to a felony level. The Board could still formally request an investigation and get a response. However, utilizing Mr. Cole's plan for an acceptable resolution would be a much better solution ... wouldn't you agree? His plan would accomplish what the Board wants, and it also would allow Braveheart time to save the lives of the innocent dogs. Perhaps your readers can make this happen. Your newspaper has been posting letters that highlight your readers' concerns over the seemingly callous and indifferent way this matter is being handled.

Kathleen B. Lee

Woodbury

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