The links connecting animal abuse and cruelty to domestic violence are well established and recognized by law enforcement. We must always report animal abuse, and investigate and convict those guilty of this heinous crime. In doing so, we may also rescue an abused child or battered woman from the same horrors. When I read the sickening report of the agony suffered by the poor creatures detailed in “Cock-fight leads to 36 arrests” I immediately thought of those animals that remained in that torture chamber called a “farm” and what fate awaits them.

I then thought of the 36 individuals arrested. Those found guilty of this repulsive crime are likely to be guilty of vicious cruelty and abuse against human family members as well. Abusers think nothing of preying on voiceless, helpless animals, molesting an intimidated child, or battering a woman into silence. Fighting and reporting animal abuse is one reason the SPCA of Mariposa County was founded. Through the home page of our Web site at www.mariposaspca.org our citizens can find out how to recognize and report animal abuse and domestic violence. Also, all local, state, and federal animal welfare laws can be easily accessed there.

Remember that we must always report animal abuse. We may also be saving an abused and helpless child.

Sarah Windsor, vice president

SPCA of Mariposa County