The Charleston Animal Society (CAS) is stepping up its efforts to combat animal cruelty following its recent takeover of the Berkeley campus. One of its most recent and high-priority rescues involved 35 dogs rescued from a property in Goose Creek. These dogs, now under the care of CAS, are being rehabilitated and will eventually be made available for adoption — although the process may take some time.
The Role of Veterinary Forensics in Animal Cruelty Investigations
CAS is well-known for working closely with law enforcement to assist in animal cruelty investigations. One of the key tools they use in these cases is veterinary forensics. This specialized field of veterinary science helps determine the level of neglect or abuse suffered by animals in these situations.
Joe Elmore, the President and CEO of the Charleston Animal Society, emphasized the importance of the shelter’s efforts in these investigations. “They’re in a much better location now with us than what they were living in,” Elmore stated, referencing the rescued dogs’ improved conditions at the shelter.
Temporary Custody and the Legal Process
The 35 rescued dogs are currently receiving care at the CAS campus, but they cannot be adopted out immediately. Elmore explained that a temporary custody hearing is scheduled for Friday, where a judge will determine whether the dogs will be permanently turned over to CAS or possibly returned to the defendant. Until then, the dogs remain in the care of the shelter, receiving the attention and treatment they need.
CAS plays an essential role in these investigations, not only by rescuing the animals but also by providing expert testimony and forensic evidence to help law enforcement pursue justice. “We have some of the most qualified animal cruelty investigative staff, along with animal cruelty veterinary forensic staff, here at the Animal Society,” Elmore added.
Understanding Animal Abuse and Neglect
Veterinary forensics is a critical part of identifying whether abuse or neglect was intentional. Since animals can’t speak or tell their side of the story, this specialized team helps law enforcement and solicitors identify whether the cruelty was accidental or deliberate.
Elmore explained that some cases involve hoarding situations where people are overwhelmed by the number of animals they own and lack the resources to care for them adequately. While this may not always be intentional neglect, it still violates state laws and local ordinances regarding proper animal care. In other cases, intentional cruelty or neglect is evident, and veterinary forensics can provide crucial evidence to support legal action.
Helping Neglected Animals: How You Can Make a Difference
One of the best ways to help neglected animals is by adopting those already available for adoption at CAS. By providing loving homes to the animals currently in care, CAS can make room for the recently rescued animals, like the 35 dogs from Goose Creek.
To encourage adoptions, CAS is hosting its Bissell “Empty The Shelters” event, where you can adopt a dog, cat, or kitten for just $25. The fee covers spaying, neutering, microchipping, and vaccinations. The event runs through Sunday, so it’s a great opportunity to give a home to a pet in need while supporting CAS’s mission to rescue and rehabilitate animals.
