Fighting for animal welfare continues in Kentucky

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Fighting to help those who can not ask for help themselves never stops.

In the state of Kentucky, the Humane Society of the United States, politicians and organizations have been hard at work to bring about change.

Secretary of State Michael Adams, says as an animal lover he is glad to see so many people gather to do just that.

“Discussing how to be effective as citizens engaging legislatures,” said Adams. “That’s what our system of government’s based on, the notion of regular folks getting together and approaching legislatures and asking for action on issues.”

Right now, there are several bills on the table at the capitol. Such as Senate Bill 39 which would increase penalties for animal fighting.

“Animal fighting is a serious crime that brings in other serious crimes into the community,” said Todd Blevins, Director for The Humane Society here in Kentucky.

And Senate Bill 124 which would establish a cost of care law in Kentucky.

Blevins says Senate Bill 122 however, would turn back progress that has already been made.

“So basically the pet store industry, one store in particular, that’s really trying to overturn some of the progress that’s been made at the local level all across the state all just in the name of profit, that’s all it’s about,” said Blevins.

But dogs and cats are not the only animals that need protecting. So do horses, an industry that is a mainstay of Kentucky’s economy.

“So I usually tell everybody, if you’re in doubt reach out,” said Sarah Coleman, the Executive Director for the Kentucky Horse Council. “Whether that means you knock on the door and ask the owner. Or if they kind of want to kick it up the chain a little bit, reach out to their local animal control officer.”

Remy Simpson, the founder of Paws 4 the Cause, has been fighting for animal welfare for decades. He says while Kentucky has seen a little progress, it’s not enough.

“But there is a lot that needs to be done on a legislative bases to improve the lives of animals here in Kentucky,” said Simpson.

This is the third year for the animal welfare summit.