Residents concerned about increase in animal dumping

LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) - Just last month we told you about an uptick in abandoned animals in Jeff Davis parish, but the problem isn’t isolated.

There have been reports from all around Southwest Louisiana about dogs being dumped.

At least five puppies have been dumped over the past couple weeks off of Tom Hebert Road in Lake Charles. And as many shelters are over or at capacity, officials are reminding the public it is illegal to abandon animals.

“I understand people get in a bind, but there’s no excuse for just dropping off a dog and abandoning it. I can’t imagine how terrified that animal is, you know? It’s so sad,” said Michele Trahan, a concerned resident who experienced abandonment within her own neighborhood.

Trahan says the instance from earlier in the week was not an isolated event.

“Myself, we just picked up one three weeks ago someone dumped at our church. My daughter just got one last week that someone found that had been dumped in North Louisiana that was probably days from death. That’s why we weren’t really able to help,” Trahan said.

Luckily the five puppies were rescued, but that isn’t the case for all abandoned animals. Some may not be reported and are left to die.

“There’s got to be something done for the community and for people who are in these situations that they feel the only option they have is to just dump it off out in the woods or out in the country somewhere,” said Trahan.

Claire Terracina with Calcasieu Animal Services told 7News there has been an increase in calls pertaining to animals being dumped all over the parish.

Like many other shelters in the area, Calcasieu Animal Services is dealing with the repercussions of the dumping. Rescuing and rehabilitating abandoned animals while at max capacity has become the reality for many animal rescue groups.

According to state law, the penalty for abandoning a pet or any other domesticated animal in Louisiana might include fines, community service, or even jail time. Also, the offender could be responsible for all costs associated with the care and treatment of the animal.

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