Even though they cannot communicate with humans, Don Clark says animals shouldn’t have to endure unnecessary suffering.

Tuesday, February 06, 2001

Even though they cannot communicate with humans, Don Clark says animals shouldn’t have to endure unnecessary suffering.

Looking out for the well-being of animals in Lawrence County is now Clark’s job as he took over the post of county humane agent in late December. He succeeded Carla Beasley, who left the post several months ago.

"Carla did a great job as humane agent and I intend to carry on the work to the best of my ability," said Clark, adding Beasley has been "a great help" to him during the transition.

The primary concern of the humane agent, Clark said, is to investigate animal cruelty cases. The humane agent works for the local Humane Society, but is paid by the county.

Though his primary duty is to investigate animal abuse cases, Clark said he wants to take it one step further. He said he wants to bring awareness to the issue of animal cruelty and educate the public on how to eradicate the problem. He also wants people to realize animals are living creatures as opposed to inanimate objects.

"I don’t want the people of Lawrence County – especially our young people – to look at animal abuse as an acceptable thing" Clark said. "The animals around us are all part of God’s great plan and we should have compassion for them as well as our fellow man. After all, it’s really just a short step from one to the other."

Clark said the future of the county animal shelter is currently in question because its operation depends heavily on outside donations and volunteers. He said he hopes the public realizes the significance of the shelter and puts forth the effort to keep it functional.

"If it closes, I shudder to think of the animals that will suffer," he said. "There simply is not enough foster homes for them all."

Clark encourages anyone in the county who is aware of or suspects animal cruelty to contact him at the animal shelter. He said if he is not in, his home phone number will be made available through the shelter.