I would've rescued a downed dog, just as Ms. Grimes allegedly did. Like her, I would've tried to get authorities to do the right thing first, and then I would've stepped-in myself, if authorities did nothing. ...Just as Ms. Grimes apparently did.
Animal cruelty and neglect is illegal in most regions. Chaining is also illegal in many regions, and should be in all (for too many reasons to list here, not the least of which is the fact that dogs are pack animals).
Rescuing the dog isn't really the crime (I believe) that Ms. Grimes is being accused of committing. It was her failure to turn the dog over to authorities, once she learned they were planning on returning the dog to the owners.
I understand her choice. ...Completely.
However, I likely would've done everything completely above-board and legal, if I'd been in the same position. (I'm lucky, I guess, that I don't witness ongoing animal neglect and cruelty in my community. ...Thank goodness. It wouldn't be pretty for the culprits, I can say that much.) Like Ms. Grimes, I would've taken the dog to a veterinarian, and whatnot. (I've taken injured animals to veterinary clinics many times. The veterinary clinic then turms them over to the appropriate authorities: a wildlife agency or local animal control.) But I also would've complied with law, after that, even knowing the dog would go back to its cruel owners. I wouldn't have liked it. But I wouldn't have spirited the dog away. That is the crime that was committed, and I think I would've recognized that at the time. I'm the kind of person who would not shy away from breaking the law, if I felt a strong enough conviction to do so. But, at the same time, I'm also the kind of person who would accept the consequences, as well.
I don't consider Ms. Grimes a thief, in any (even perverted) definition of that word. Had the owners not abused the dog, Ms. Grimes wouldn't have been contacted and she never would have taken the dog for veterinary care. I've not heard her accused of just randomly stealing dogs because they were chained, for example. This was a unique situation, the circumstances of which should have been considered before charging her with a crime. But, according to the wording of the law, taking the dog and then refusing to return it is "theft". That's where I would've drawn the line, I think. Ms. Grimes didn't. And in this respect only, I acknowledge that she "could" be charged with a crime, given her actions after initially rescuing the dog.
Having heard about this case pretty much at the time it happened, I find all the subsequent name calling rather pethetic and infantile. There is no controversy, really. An animal was left suffering for several days, and finally someone had the cajones to stop it. Initially, every attempt was made to be legally compliant. The scurrilous accusations against Ms. Grimes only came later, when paranoid 'the-government-is-stealing-my-thoughts' psychos saw this as a way to highlight their sad, misguided, property rights views. (Continuing to insist that animals are property...no different than inanimate property...is pretty much a guarantee that animals will continue to suffer abuse from owners who feel they have a right to do so.)
Personally, I believe the decision to try Ms. Grimes for theft was extremely petty (and could only be conceived by people who prize their right to abuse their "property," over animal welfare). To further convict her, given the circumstances, would be laughable if it weren't so serious. What's next? Accusing her of animal cruelty, and prohibiting her from animal ownership for the next decade, while the real abusers go unpunished? I mean, I would almost expect that kind of vindictiveness from the judicial system, at this point.
If anything, I can only imagine Ms. Grimes' conviction is meant to be a message to those who work in animal welfare. According to those who side with Ms. Grimes' conviction, apparently animal abuse is okay because animals are just property, like a bicycle or a car or a sofa. Like any other property, the owner can do what he/she wishes, at any time, and there will be no repercussions whatsoever. Pretty much every animal abuser I've encountered claimed they loved the victims of their abuse. Many also say they have a right to do what they want with their property.
Anyone who calls for more humane treatment of animals is childishly labeled an animal rights nut. Actually, just about anyone who calls for more humane treatment of animals is called any number of mean-spirited names, like "wacko" or "nutjob" or "psycho". Standing up for voiceless animals is certainly a way to publicly discredit yourself, fair or not. Even discussing the merits of animal rights opens the door for all manner of personal, and very public, attacks. There really is no freedom where all other views are shouted down by the most obtuse, opinionated and ignorant voices. That's not freedom. It's certainly not progress, either. But I guess when I say "progress" I mean moving towards a world where it is unthinkable to cause unnecessary suffering to animals. And I've found, overwhelming I might add, that most people could care less about ending animal suffering, when push comes to shove. They're most concerned with their own "rights" and their animal-related desires. There's no thought at all about an animal's desires. Whatever people want is all that matters...even if it is in the very worst interests of animals.
The message to anyone who believes animals should be protected from cruelty is they'd better not do a thing, themselves. They must wait, and stand by, while animals are abused, until someone in a position of authority chooses to get off his/her fat @$$ to actually do something...which we all know means a warning, at best, for the first report. Those who believe that no innocent person or animal should have to endure needless suffering will have to bite their tongues, and restrain their moral consciences...they must fail to act...because no matter how bad the suffering, only people who've chosen to work in animal control have the authority to do anything to end that suffering. Everyone else should be silent. Most important, everyone else should do nothing that actually protects an animal from further suffering.
Ms. Grimes did the right thing is rescuing the dog. She also did the right thing in protecting that dog from being returned to its abusers. Sadly, the law is often not on the side of what is right. And in not returning the dog to the abusers, she broke the law. Anyone who wouldn't break the law to end an animal's suffering probably has no real insight into this case.
Everyone has their opinion (mostly based on where they stand in regards to animal welfare) but I do know that the ONLY person who committed a crime (CRUELTY TO ANIMALS) here and SHOULD have been prosecuted and sentenced is the OWNER(S) who let this dog sit there and suffer until Ms.Grimes stepped in. It is bad enough having an animal tethered, but to DENY proper medical care for a living creature in your possession is a CRIME. The owner should be kissing her feet and THANKING her for doing what THEY WERE OBLIGATED as pet owners (and a decent human being) TO DO. She did try to get help from authorities with NO SUCCESS - if she had not done that then maybe SOME action against her would be justified, HOWEVER, the main one who needs to be prosecuted and sentenced is the NEGLECTFUL AND INHUMANE OWNER of the dog.
Any human being that could possibly see all the video and hear all the testimony and still believe this woman should be punished, is truly holding evil inside of them. She tried to call help..when they didnt show up..she took the dog to the same place he would have been taken by a legal authority...whom showed up at the vets/shelter and I believe and Tammy told that person that she would take the dog back, and then they could pick it up..and they told her NO. If it had been a wild animal, there would have been no issues. But, because some cruel humans owned a "dog"...that takes Tammy's actions of kindness towards another living creature and turns it into more tragedy. I truly hope that the original owners will get the karma that they deserve for the suffering they put their dog through. I am disgusted, purely disgusted. Good Luck Tammy !!
A thief doesn't leave a note with their name and address, (I know I wouldn't have) A thief doesn't take a dying dog to a vet and pay a huge vet bill. The only theft here is committed by the State of Pennsylvania. Tammy Grimes constitutional rights have been stolen. If ignorance was a crime, you'd be jailed. Find out what you're talking about, a thief doesn't want a dying dog, only a caring compassionate person would take the heroic actions Tammy took. No worries, your safe.
AND WE ARE EQUALLY, ACTUALLY EVEN MORE DISGUSTED WITH THOSE WHO ABUSE ANIMALS. ONE MUST POSSESS MUCH EVIL IN THEIR HEARTS IF THEY ABUSE ANY LIFE AND DEFEND ABUSERS. GET READY FOR A REVOLUTION!
Doogie is on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge wondering why Tammy is being punished. He thinks some of the humans here have things mixed up. His 'legal owners' Doogie hopes to never see again. Doogie is having fun up there and will be waiting at the Rainbow Bridge for the day Tammy crosses it along with the rest of the true animal lovers and rescue workers. I'm proud to support Tammy and hope to meet her in person some day either side of the Rainbow Bridge.
JAKE is dead. He doesn't wonder anything. There is no Rainbow Bridge. It's a bunch of made-up crap like the tooth fairy and the Easter bunny. Grow up already.
His spirit will live on forever - pity you can't feel that special love from him now ! The body may go but those past remain close to those who loved them - just in a different way ! Oh perhaps Jake is gone then and spending time with someone who really loved him !
Is a lovely term used for heaven ! God Created the heavens and the earth - and he brought to this earth everything that lives on it - he did not make us superior so that we could use and abuse his creatioons - there is certainly nowhere in the bible that says that the human race are the only species that will enter heaven - We are all the same as we bleed - we feel pain - we suffer - we grieve - we bring to this earth new life - and we do what was meant for us to do while we are here on this earth until our time has finished - In heaven the lion will lay with the lamb and for those who do not believe - when you are in trouble what are the first words out of your mouth ? Well usually OH GOD !!! For all the bad man does to this planet and to each other and all of the creatures on this earth - you will have to face the big judge one day - I for one am glad not to be in your shoes !
Is God made up? Prove...and I don't mean with hate-filled words, but PROVE that Rainbow Bridge does not exist. By the way, God created all life EQUALLY.
Well, do you mean the poem about what happens to pets that we love? The text of that poem is below. The origin of that poem is unknown. The idea of the rainbow being a bridge between heaven and Earth seems to have originated with Norse mythology.
In Norse mythology, Bifrost, which means "rainbow", was the bridge that spanned Midgard, the realm of man, and Asgard, the realm of the Gods. Bifrost was made of 3 colors with great magics and skill by the Aesir and is incredibly strong. It is said that the bridge will never fall until the end of the Cosmos itself, at which time it will collapse. The bridge Bifrost is closely guarded by Heimdall, the watchman of the Gods to keep the ferocious giants from entering the lands of Man and destroying them.
Phaed
Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or
maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them,
who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance.
His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying
over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous
reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the
beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life
but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
Author unknown...
As you can see, the rainbow bridge has nothing to do with G-d. There is no "rainbow bridge" in His Word either.
Tammy did the right thing. I am a firm believer in compassion for all species, both animal and human. Tammy, I stand behind you 100%. If I had been in the same position you were in, I would have done the exact same thing you did.
I am sorry - when there is anything suffering - near to death and everyone around who has the power to do something - DOES NOTHING - then this is certainly in the eyes of God NOT THEFT - We are here to help - to save lives - human, animals, if they need help we are going to get them help ! The only ones who should have been charged in this case were those who sat back and didn't lift a finger to help this dog ! OWN ANIMALS - if you don't take care of them just like if you don't take care of children - they need to be removed immediately ! I worry about the other dogs these people may have - hope they have learned a lesson here - that they too will not get away with abusing or neglecting animals !
And are you the judge? How do you know how anyone will be judged? Do you think you will be judged favorably because you act like you know what God is thinking? You don't know squat.
I am not the judge - you are not the judge. I have nothing to worry about because I have NEVER, nor will I EVER harm another living being. There is the one true judge we will all answer to. Those who have harmed any living being will have their day, whether here or there, where they will have to answer to what they have done. I may not know squat, but you who abuse and support abusers...well, you really do not.
"For all of us must appear before Christ, to be judged by Him. Each one will receive what he deserves, according to everything he has done, good or bad, in his bodily life." 2 Corinthians 5:10
"A good man takes care of his animals, but wicked men are cruel to theirs." Proverbs 12:10
"This plan, which God will complete when the time is right, is to bring all creation together, everything in heaven and on earth, with Christ as head." Ephesians 1:10
Nothin' plain and simple about a law that prosecutes the hero and lets the perp go free. She wouldn't have had to "steal" the dog if the law for cruelty and neglect was followed in the first place.
There is difference between the letter and the spirit of the law. Any educated person understands this. Those of us who love God's creatures weap for the failure in this case.
Tammy will be rewarded in Heaven for her courage and love. I stand with her.
There is no SPIRIT of the law!!! You're guilty or you're innocent. That's it. There's no holding hands and singing Kumbaya. There's no emotional psycho-babble. It's spelled out and there's no favoritism, or not supposed to be, anyway. She stole a dog and she refused to bring it back and hand it over to authorities. She KNEW she broke the law and did it anyway. She is GUILTY GUILTY GUILTY! What part of that do you not get? The judge was very lenient with her. Her a** should be in jail.
WE HAVE A JUSTICE SYSTEM SET UP HERE IN AMERICA, IN CASE SOMEONE FORGOT TO TELL THE JUDGES & PROSECUTORS IN P.A.
SUPPRESSING EVIDENCE TO MANIPULATE A VERDICT IS NOT PART OF IT. HOW THIS CAN HAPPEN & BE GOTTEN AWAY WITH IS BEYOND MY COMPREHENSION. IT SHOWS A SERIOUS DECLINE & DISRESPECT FOR THE LAWS OF THE LAND. THIS JUDGE NEEDS TO BE REMOVED FROM THEIR SEAT & THE PROSECUTOR NEEDS TO BE DISBARRED. i AM GOING TO WRITE TO THE GOVERNOR & IF THAT DOES NOT WORK I WILL GO HIGHER UP THE CHAIN OF COMMAND.
WAY TO GO TAMMY! THANK YOU FOR STANDING YOUR GROUND & STANDING UP FOR WHAT IS RIGHT.
WITH ALL THE "FALLEN HEROES" IN THE NEWS LATELY, OUR CHILDREN NEED TO SEE SOMEONE GOOD DOING THE RIGHT THING NO MATTER THE COST! YOUR PARENTS SHOULD BE PROUD OF YOU! I KNOW AS AN AMERICAN CITIZEN, I AM.
I have to say that after reading all of the posts, especially the posts from those who support and promote the abuse, torture, neglect and killing of both animals and humans, I now have even more of a drive and commitment to protect animals. Animals who need compassionate people to take a stand in support of their rights! All these hateful people are doing is uniting animal welfare advocates and making our commitment to the animals much stronger. So, for that, I say thank you to those who do not care for animals. Because your hate for their right to live a wonderful life, free of abuse, neglect, torture and killing, you are only strengthening our cause.
I thought animal welfare was abysmal in North Carolina (where I live), but reading about Tammy's trial was enough to make me sick to my stomach. Reading the comments of the idiotic judge & proscutor, I thought my head would explode! How can people in this day & age (& in a "civilized" country) be such imbeciles?? How can ANYONE justify leaving a helpless dog to die alone in the mud?? Voters in PA, please do what you can to get rid of these morons!!
To take an elderly dog writhing in pain from the end of a thick chain and give it back dignity and care, clean it, show it affection, administer medicine and help it to stand once again, which directly prolonged the dog's life, is one of the kindest things I have ever heard.
Tammy called for help long before she took action of this nature and for that she has been sentenced by the law for a non-existent crime! Crime is what is going on all around you, can't you people see that? Crime is when dogs are set on fire and beaten to a pulp, starved and used in dog fights, crime is what we are all living through in this harsh and difficult world, day in and day out. This lady has committed no crime, she saved a dying dog. Wake up you haters and start living a compassionate life! Tammy did the right thing, any sane person knows this, stop speaking up for people that abused their dog and get over it. Tammy Grimes reached out in this animal's hour of need, it's what a million others would do faced with the same situation, she happened to be the one that WAS there and she made a difference. What did you do today to make a difference?
If this is what you call a thief then what do you call the people that dump their dogs or move away and leave them inside an empty house with no food or water? I guess you'd call them good people would you? What do you call those that don't spay and neuter their pets and who end up with litters of pups that find their way to the kill shelter? I guess you'd call them responsible? Animal abuse is everywhere, crime is everywhere, ignorant uncaring human beings outnumber decent people. So this girl is compassionate and she saved a dog. Would you rather she left it to become a dead dog buried in the backyard whose pain and suffering went unnoticed by everyone? You really are some pieces of work posting negative comments on this site when it is obvious the only option for a kind, balanced, intelligent and normal human being is to intervene if severe suffering is witnessed.
I think the true nature of a lot of you people is shining through, you don't really believe that a dog is entitled to a dignified life or death. The sentencing bears this out. But all over the world people agree with Tammy and agree that this dog's life was worth saving, no matter how old, Doogie was a living being and he thankfully left this earth knowing he was loved. Tammy is suffering the usual backlash that all people with notoriety receive from the public when their name becomes well known, it's called the bad side of human nature, however, notoriety is not the issue, Tammy's good deed IS and she will go down in history for making a stand for a neglected animal that even the authorities would not remove to SAFETY!!
Tammy Grimes has put animals on the map in your part of the world and you should be proud of that. I have no doubt that due to her wonderful work and her conduct in this case she will change laws for the better for chained dogs, that's a good thing, so I suggest all you people who think it's ok to leave your dog tied up with no food or water - and no LIFE, go get cracking on making some adjustments to your pets living quarters, because this is a benchmark case and it will end a lot of suffering in the years ahead.
The prosecutors may believe they have won the day but the dogs have truly won because better animal protection will come thanks to the selfless actions of a dedicated and very special human being. Yes, DOGS DO DESERVE BETTER and nobody in their right mind can argue that. The law must protect the innocent from abuse and neglect, not the perpetrators of cruelty.
Since this case I am sure everybody has noticed the amount of dogs on chains, but even better than that I bet everyone takes a second look to make sure the dogs look healthy and well cared for! That's how things get changed, through EDUCATION! And this case has certainly done that. Go Tammy, we support you one hundred and fifty per cent!
And thank you to ALL humane beings, without you animals would not stand a chance.
If this were a child laying on the ground bleeding to death and you called for help and it didn't arrive after an hour, should you put your child in your car and drive them to the hospital or wait? If you take it to the hospital, it is kidnapping and you will go to jail.
Anyone that can look at the pictures of Doogie and read the horrific conditions he was living in, and think that Tammy committed any type of crime, has absolutely no compassion for any living things.
I ask of those that agree with the Judge's sentence, would you be willing to spend one week, or even one day, chained by your neck, in filthy living conditions, with no human interaction, with no ability to free yourself, with no end in site?
Now remember, you can't yell or go run and get a police officer and tell them you are scared and alone. You can't just undo the chain around your neck. You are stuck there in a never ending hell. Well would you volunteer for that life?
Now imagine you had no choice. Imagine someone scooped you up and decided this was going to be your life every single day.
I bet there is not one human out there that would choose that life for themselves. I would love to see the people that owned Doogie spend just a small amount of time in his shoes. I guarantee you they would not last one day.
So what gives any human the right to thrust that lifestyle upon a helpless creature. It appears that one day on a whim they decided they wanted a dog and then the next that dog became too much of a burden to take real care of.
These dogs are completely helpless without us. They have no ability to ask for anything, they can't go tell someone they are being abused and tortured. They rely on us to care for and love them.
Anyone that has ever had a dog as a pet knows that these creatures will lay down their lives for their owners. All they ask in return is for compassion. A nice warm place to sleep, a scratch behind the ears now and then - is that really too much to ask for in return for a lifetime of love an affection?
Whether you agree with me or not, animals have feelings and emotions just like we do and they deserve to get the basic care that any human would get if not more because they are so dependent on us.
If you are so ignorant to think that we are so superior and that dogs do not deserve to be treated with care and respect and that they do not have the basic right to be treated humanely, then my advice is to never ever get an animal as a pet. You will never be able to give it the love and affection it will need.
Don't be suprised if someday you have some careless person taking care of you in a nursing home that decides that they don't quite feel like taking care of you like they should. They don't feel like bringing you food or water or takign you to the bathroom when you need to go. It happens everyday and maybe someday those uncompassiomate monsters will finally get what they deserve. Remember what goes around comes around.
Doogie I know you are up there looking down wagging your tail, finally free, in support of all that Tammy and DDB has done for dogs out there just like you.
Tammy you are an angel - keep fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves!
First of all the neighbor gave the LAW a few calls and got no action. Tammy got a call, came out and called the LAW herself. The LAW didn't come. She did what written LAW told her to do. NO RESPONSE. She then ACTED on the LAW in her heart, she saw a living being in dire need of medical care, she took it to the veterinarian for proper care. There was evidence of long term NEGLECT. If she would have done nothing, she too would have been GUILTY of NEGLECT.
The world will never be a better place if people don't ACT to change it. ACTION brings change, not FEAR to ACT.
May I ask all of you that feel Tammy did not get a harsh enough sentence, what are you doing on a site that advocates the life of an animal be free from cruelty and neglect, when you do not see this as it is. Do you believe animals should be able to "LIVE and DIE" free of neglect and cruelty REGARDLESS of OWNERSHIP? As the humans in charge of their care as a whole, then all animals become no longer "property" but our RESPONSIBILITY to ensure their welfare in LIFE and DEATH, regardless of ownership per say.
So then it would be AGAINST the LAW NOT to ACT.
Tammy ACTED on a LAW more powerful than any written law, the law IN us. This is what brings CHANGE. ACTIONS. What kind of LAW says it is BETTER to turn away from A suffering LIFE(in death)???
Are PROPERTY LINES the problem here? Is a living thing(or dying thing)in distress REALY PROPERTY? Whether it be a bunny or a horse is there a definitive PROPERTY LINE when it comes to providing help when there is none??
If these WRITTEN laws override the laws of the heart, the world will NEVER change. The written laws WILL eventually change to reflect a conscientious, caring world and PENALIZE those who "do nothing". It is Tammy's ACTION and the ACTIONS of others that WILL bring AWARNESS and CHANGE. I would hope that if my neighbor saw my animal in medical need that they would ACT and do the right thing for my animal. Kim, Minnesota
For those who say (and seem to believe what they say), that this dog was SO loved by the Arnolds, and that the only reason it didn't get up is because it was sleeping, or just didn't want to get up for Tammy, you really must educate yourselves on this case. If this dog was being treated by a vet via the Arnold's, then tell me why any self-respecting vet would EVER allow a dogs nails to grow so long that they were curled UNDER his pads? NO dog could walk with nails like that and THAT is only a small portion of evidence - PROOF that this dog was suffering at the hands of the Arnold's. Feces embedded in it's hair, a filthy, empty food bowl and an equally filthy water pail with water so rancid, rats wouldn't drink it. This is so inhumane. Ask yourselves a question. Would you treat your wife, husband, partner, mother, father or children in this manor? If you wouldn't, then why would you subject an animal to such a horrific existence? ALL life is created equal - we all breath the same air, walk the same planet. Domesticated animals rely on us to proved love, food, water and shelter and do not deserve the abuse that some humans inflict upon them. Treat all life the way YOU would want to be treated. It is not a question of status, race, or socio-economics. It is not a rich/poor issue. It is, however, an issue of ethics. If you cannot properly care for an animal, you should not have one until you are able. We, as a society need to show more compassion for all living things.
Ever occur to you why some of us can be this much concerned with animals suffering? Because government is not. Why not? Animals don't vote. ~Paul Harvey
Animals give me more pleasure through the viewfinder of a camera than they ever did in the crosshairs of a gunsight. And after I've finished "shooting," my unharmed victims are still around for others to enjoy. I have developed a deep respect for animals. I consider them fellow living creatures with certain rights that should not be violated any more than those of humans. ~Jimmy Stewart
The fact that man knows right from wrong proves his intellectual superiority to the other creatures; but the fact that he can do wrong proves his moral inferiority to any creatures that cannot. ~Mark Twain, What Is Man, 1906
The animals of the world exist for their own reasons. They were not made for humans any more than black people were made for white, or women created for men. ~Alice Walker
Animals can communicate quite well. And they do. And generally speaking, they are ignored. ~Alice Walker
Heaven is by favor; if it were by merit your dog would go in and you would stay out. Of all the creatures ever made [man] is the most detestable. Of the entire brood, he is the only one... that possesses malice. He is the only creature that inflicts pain for sport, knowing it to be pain. ~Mark Twain
The human spirit is not dead. It lives on in secret.... It has come to believe that compassion, in which all ethics must take root, can only attain its full breadth and depth if it embraces all living creatures and does not limit itself to mankind. ~Albert Schweitzer, Novel Peace Prize address, "The Problem of Peace in the World Today"
We must fight against the spirit of unconscious cruelty with which we treat the animals. Animals suffer as much as we do. True humanity does not allow us to impose such sufferings on them. It is our duty to make the whole world recognize it. Until we extend our circle of compassion to all living things, humanity will not find peace. ~Albert Schweitzer, The Philosophy of Civilization
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
"To my mind, the life of a lamb is no less precious than that of a human being."
Mahatma Gandhi, statesman and philosopher
"Non-violence leads to the highest ethics, which is the goal of all evolution. Until we stop harming all other living beings, we are still savages."
Thomas Edison, inventor
One person says the nails are curled and you all jump in like the sheeple you are and mimic it. You don't know what the nails looked like. If they were so bad, why didn't someone trim them? I'll tell you why, because you are more interested in railroading the Arnolds than you are in saving Jake. It's all about politics. But it didn't work did it? Good!
LOOK AT THE VIDEO AND PHOTOS...THE NAILS ARE CURLED. WHY DON'T YOU ASK TE ARNOLDS WHY THE DID NOT TRIM THEM??? EDUCATE YOURSELF BEFORE YOU POST IGNORANCE.
So, people should have just allowed the animal to suffer in it's own sh*t, unable to stand. Because it is obvious the poor dog was left to die by the Arnolds, which is neglect and abuse. Are you saying if someone were inflicting this kind of abuse on one of your family members, you would just allow it to happen because someone stepping in to save them would be against the law??
As I read some of these comments I just hope that if anything happens to someone I love, that Tammy will be the one who helps them.
Dogs, cats and other living, breathing creatures are not a possession. They are the same as we! They breath the same air, bleed the same as we. So for Tammy just to turn her back on this sick dog would have gone against everything she believes in. I think if she had all of her members would have been shocked too.
We are a sad society that we would think in terms of whether we should help a creature just because they happen to be on someone's property is down right stupid. We all know that our laws are pretty bad in the first place, so to just walk away from this suffering wasn't going to happen.
32% said that Tammy got what she deserved, what about the people who didn't take care of 'their' dog? These people left him out in the cold to die all alone? What about them. Are we forgetting that these people are the guilty ones? Not only have we lost our morals, we have lost all sense of right and wrong. Wake up America and start making changes that will benefit others and not just ourselves.
Tammy I stand behind you all the way. As for the judge that sentenced you, she is just as guilty as the owners.
Tammy obviously has a wealth of compassion for both animals and people as she spearheads campaigns to help educate people, provide fencing for their yards so their dogs can finally know life off a chain, provides food and treats for those animals. Please inform yourself before you make statements such as you did.
tammy grimes
I THINK GRIMES IS NO BETTER THAN ANY OTHER THIEF SHE SHOULD HAVE GOT A HARSHER SENTENCE THAN SHE DID.
Yes and no
I would've rescued a downed dog, just as Ms. Grimes allegedly did. Like her, I would've tried to get authorities to do the right thing first, and then I would've stepped-in myself, if authorities did nothing. ...Just as Ms. Grimes apparently did.
Animal cruelty and neglect is illegal in most regions. Chaining is also illegal in many regions, and should be in all (for too many reasons to list here, not the least of which is the fact that dogs are pack animals).
Rescuing the dog isn't really the crime (I believe) that Ms. Grimes is being accused of committing. It was her failure to turn the dog over to authorities, once she learned they were planning on returning the dog to the owners.
I understand her choice. ...Completely.
However, I likely would've done everything completely above-board and legal, if I'd been in the same position. (I'm lucky, I guess, that I don't witness ongoing animal neglect and cruelty in my community. ...Thank goodness. It wouldn't be pretty for the culprits, I can say that much.) Like Ms. Grimes, I would've taken the dog to a veterinarian, and whatnot. (I've taken injured animals to veterinary clinics many times. The veterinary clinic then turms them over to the appropriate authorities: a wildlife agency or local animal control.) But I also would've complied with law, after that, even knowing the dog would go back to its cruel owners. I wouldn't have liked it. But I wouldn't have spirited the dog away. That is the crime that was committed, and I think I would've recognized that at the time. I'm the kind of person who would not shy away from breaking the law, if I felt a strong enough conviction to do so. But, at the same time, I'm also the kind of person who would accept the consequences, as well.
I don't consider Ms. Grimes a thief, in any (even perverted) definition of that word. Had the owners not abused the dog, Ms. Grimes wouldn't have been contacted and she never would have taken the dog for veterinary care. I've not heard her accused of just randomly stealing dogs because they were chained, for example. This was a unique situation, the circumstances of which should have been considered before charging her with a crime. But, according to the wording of the law, taking the dog and then refusing to return it is "theft". That's where I would've drawn the line, I think. Ms. Grimes didn't. And in this respect only, I acknowledge that she "could" be charged with a crime, given her actions after initially rescuing the dog.
Having heard about this case pretty much at the time it happened, I find all the subsequent name calling rather pethetic and infantile. There is no controversy, really. An animal was left suffering for several days, and finally someone had the cajones to stop it. Initially, every attempt was made to be legally compliant. The scurrilous accusations against Ms. Grimes only came later, when paranoid 'the-government-is-stealing-my-thoughts' psychos saw this as a way to highlight their sad, misguided, property rights views. (Continuing to insist that animals are property...no different than inanimate property...is pretty much a guarantee that animals will continue to suffer abuse from owners who feel they have a right to do so.)
Personally, I believe the decision to try Ms. Grimes for theft was extremely petty (and could only be conceived by people who prize their right to abuse their "property," over animal welfare). To further convict her, given the circumstances, would be laughable if it weren't so serious. What's next? Accusing her of animal cruelty, and prohibiting her from animal ownership for the next decade, while the real abusers go unpunished? I mean, I would almost expect that kind of vindictiveness from the judicial system, at this point.
If anything, I can only imagine Ms. Grimes' conviction is meant to be a message to those who work in animal welfare. According to those who side with Ms. Grimes' conviction, apparently animal abuse is okay because animals are just property, like a bicycle or a car or a sofa. Like any other property, the owner can do what he/she wishes, at any time, and there will be no repercussions whatsoever. Pretty much every animal abuser I've encountered claimed they loved the victims of their abuse. Many also say they have a right to do what they want with their property.
Anyone who calls for more humane treatment of animals is childishly labeled an animal rights nut. Actually, just about anyone who calls for more humane treatment of animals is called any number of mean-spirited names, like "wacko" or "nutjob" or "psycho". Standing up for voiceless animals is certainly a way to publicly discredit yourself, fair or not. Even discussing the merits of animal rights opens the door for all manner of personal, and very public, attacks. There really is no freedom where all other views are shouted down by the most obtuse, opinionated and ignorant voices. That's not freedom. It's certainly not progress, either. But I guess when I say "progress" I mean moving towards a world where it is unthinkable to cause unnecessary suffering to animals. And I've found, overwhelming I might add, that most people could care less about ending animal suffering, when push comes to shove. They're most concerned with their own "rights" and their animal-related desires. There's no thought at all about an animal's desires. Whatever people want is all that matters...even if it is in the very worst interests of animals.
The message to anyone who believes animals should be protected from cruelty is they'd better not do a thing, themselves. They must wait, and stand by, while animals are abused, until someone in a position of authority chooses to get off his/her fat @$$ to actually do something...which we all know means a warning, at best, for the first report. Those who believe that no innocent person or animal should have to endure needless suffering will have to bite their tongues, and restrain their moral consciences...they must fail to act...because no matter how bad the suffering, only people who've chosen to work in animal control have the authority to do anything to end that suffering. Everyone else should be silent. Most important, everyone else should do nothing that actually protects an animal from further suffering.
Ms. Grimes did the right thing is rescuing the dog. She also did the right thing in protecting that dog from being returned to its abusers. Sadly, the law is often not on the side of what is right. And in not returning the dog to the abusers, she broke the law. Anyone who wouldn't break the law to end an animal's suffering probably has no real insight into this case.
CRUELTY TO ANIMALS is the REAL CRIME here!
Everyone has their opinion (mostly based on where they stand in regards to animal welfare) but I do know that the ONLY person who committed a crime (CRUELTY TO ANIMALS) here and SHOULD have been prosecuted and sentenced is the OWNER(S) who let this dog sit there and suffer until Ms.Grimes stepped in. It is bad enough having an animal tethered, but to DENY proper medical care for a living creature in your possession is a CRIME. The owner should be kissing her feet and THANKING her for doing what THEY WERE OBLIGATED as pet owners (and a decent human being) TO DO. She did try to get help from authorities with NO SUCCESS - if she had not done that then maybe SOME action against her would be justified, HOWEVER, the main one who needs to be prosecuted and sentenced is the NEGLECTFUL AND INHUMANE OWNER of the dog.
How Insulting to the Human Race
Any human being that could possibly see all the video and hear all the testimony and still believe this woman should be punished, is truly holding evil inside of them. She tried to call help..when they didnt show up..she took the dog to the same place he would have been taken by a legal authority...whom showed up at the vets/shelter and I believe and Tammy told that person that she would take the dog back, and then they could pick it up..and they told her NO. If it had been a wild animal, there would have been no issues. But, because some cruel humans owned a "dog"...that takes Tammy's actions of kindness towards another living creature and turns it into more tragedy. I truly hope that the original owners will get the karma that they deserve for the suffering they put their dog through. I am disgusted, purely disgusted. Good Luck Tammy !!
I'm disgusted with thieves
And that's all Tammy is. I hope she gets the jail time she deserves.
Excuse me, Thief?
A thief doesn't leave a note with their name and address, (I know I wouldn't have) A thief doesn't take a dying dog to a vet and pay a huge vet bill. The only theft here is committed by the State of Pennsylvania. Tammy Grimes constitutional rights have been stolen. If ignorance was a crime, you'd be jailed. Find out what you're talking about, a thief doesn't want a dying dog, only a caring compassionate person would take the heroic actions Tammy took. No worries, your safe.
DISGUSTED
AND WE ARE EQUALLY, ACTUALLY EVEN MORE DISGUSTED WITH THOSE WHO ABUSE ANIMALS. ONE MUST POSSESS MUCH EVIL IN THEIR HEARTS IF THEY ABUSE ANY LIFE AND DEFEND ABUSERS. GET READY FOR A REVOLUTION!
She isn't going to pay
Apparently she's not going to pay her fines and court costs. So she probably will go to jail after all. At least she won't be out stealing dogs.
Doogie's "Comment"
Doogie is on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge wondering why Tammy is being punished. He thinks some of the humans here have things mixed up. His 'legal owners' Doogie hopes to never see again. Doogie is having fun up there and will be waiting at the Rainbow Bridge for the day Tammy crosses it along with the rest of the true animal lovers and rescue workers. I'm proud to support Tammy and hope to meet her in person some day either side of the Rainbow Bridge.
Paulette
The dog is dead
JAKE is dead. He doesn't wonder anything. There is no Rainbow Bridge. It's a bunch of made-up crap like the tooth fairy and the Easter bunny. Grow up already.
Jake is dead .... but
His spirit will live on forever - pity you can't feel that special love from him now ! The body may go but those past remain close to those who loved them - just in a different way ! Oh perhaps Jake is gone then and spending time with someone who really loved him !
Perhaps
Perhaps you shoul get back on your medication. Are you hearing Jakey's voices in your head?
Rainbow Bridge
Is a lovely term used for heaven ! God Created the heavens and the earth - and he brought to this earth everything that lives on it - he did not make us superior so that we could use and abuse his creatioons - there is certainly nowhere in the bible that says that the human race are the only species that will enter heaven - We are all the same as we bleed - we feel pain - we suffer - we grieve - we bring to this earth new life - and we do what was meant for us to do while we are here on this earth until our time has finished - In heaven the lion will lay with the lamb and for those who do not believe - when you are in trouble what are the first words out of your mouth ? Well usually OH GOD !!! For all the bad man does to this planet and to each other and all of the creatures on this earth - you will have to face the big judge one day - I for one am glad not to be in your shoes !
Yes there will be animals in heaven
But there still is no Rainbow Bridge.
Made up
Is God made up? Prove...and I don't mean with hate-filled words, but PROVE that Rainbow Bridge does not exist. By the way, God created all life EQUALLY.
Proof
http://www.hungrybrowser.com/phaedrus/m070103.htm
Hello Jimmy,
Well, do you mean the poem about what happens to pets that we love? The text of that poem is below. The origin of that poem is unknown. The idea of the rainbow being a bridge between heaven and Earth seems to have originated with Norse mythology.
In Norse mythology, Bifrost, which means "rainbow", was the bridge that spanned Midgard, the realm of man, and Asgard, the realm of the Gods. Bifrost was made of 3 colors with great magics and skill by the Aesir and is incredibly strong. It is said that the bridge will never fall until the end of the Cosmos itself, at which time it will collapse. The bridge Bifrost is closely guarded by Heimdall, the watchman of the Gods to keep the ferocious giants from entering the lands of Man and destroying them.
Phaed
Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or
maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them,
who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance.
His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying
over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous
reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the
beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life
but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
Author unknown...
As you can see, the rainbow bridge has nothing to do with G-d. There is no "rainbow bridge" in His Word either.
What this is.....
This is one big phony political media circus.
Tammy
Tammy did the right thing. I am a firm believer in compassion for all species, both animal and human. Tammy, I stand behind you 100%. If I had been in the same position you were in, I would have done the exact same thing you did.
She is a criminal
Plain and simple. She deserved jail. She had no business stealing a dog.
Stealing or Saving Life
I am sorry - when there is anything suffering - near to death and everyone around who has the power to do something - DOES NOTHING - then this is certainly in the eyes of God NOT THEFT - We are here to help - to save lives - human, animals, if they need help we are going to get them help ! The only ones who should have been charged in this case were those who sat back and didn't lift a finger to help this dog ! OWN ANIMALS - if you don't take care of them just like if you don't take care of children - they need to be removed immediately ! I worry about the other dogs these people may have - hope they have learned a lesson here - that they too will not get away with abusing or neglecting animals !
The eyes of God
And how do you know how God sees this? He did write "Thou shalt not steal"
ABUSE
God did NOT put any life on this planet to be abused. Believe that those who abuse or neglect any life will be judged in the end.
Judged
And are you the judge? How do you know how anyone will be judged? Do you think you will be judged favorably because you act like you know what God is thinking? You don't know squat.
Very telling of you
I am not the judge - you are not the judge. I have nothing to worry about because I have NEVER, nor will I EVER harm another living being. There is the one true judge we will all answer to. Those who have harmed any living being will have their day, whether here or there, where they will have to answer to what they have done. I may not know squat, but you who abuse and support abusers...well, you really do not.
"For all of us must appear before Christ, to be judged by Him. Each one will receive what he deserves, according to everything he has done, good or bad, in his bodily life." 2 Corinthians 5:10
"A good man takes care of his animals, but wicked men are cruel to theirs." Proverbs 12:10
"This plan, which God will complete when the time is right, is to bring all creation together, everything in heaven and on earth, with Christ as head." Ephesians 1:10
plain and simple
Nothin' plain and simple about a law that prosecutes the hero and lets the perp go free. She wouldn't have had to "steal" the dog if the law for cruelty and neglect was followed in the first place.
Tammy's Sentence
SHE GOT A RAW DEAL. I STAND WITH TAMMY. ALL SHE IS GILTY OF IS LOVE.
The letter vs. the spirit of the law.
The 'letter' of the law has prevailed.
The 'spirit' of the law failed.
There is difference between the letter and the spirit of the law. Any educated person understands this. Those of us who love God's creatures weap for the failure in this case.
Tammy will be rewarded in Heaven for her courage and love. I stand with her.
Spirit/
There is no SPIRIT of the law!!! You're guilty or you're innocent. That's it. There's no holding hands and singing Kumbaya. There's no emotional psycho-babble. It's spelled out and there's no favoritism, or not supposed to be, anyway. She stole a dog and she refused to bring it back and hand it over to authorities. She KNEW she broke the law and did it anyway. She is GUILTY GUILTY GUILTY! What part of that do you not get? The judge was very lenient with her. Her a** should be in jail.
Spirit
And what part of the Arnolds abused that poor dog do you not get??? Closing your eyes to reality is a dangerous thing for ALL living beings.
Obviously....
They were not charged with anything, so they aren't criminals. Tammy is.
Which is an issue
BECAUSE, ANYWHERE else in this country, the Arnolds would be paying for what they did to that dog. What they did was abuse and neglect.
ANYWHERE?
Cann you prove that?
Law enforcement
Want a little taste, watch the Animal Planet cops shows. I work in law enforcement and can assure you that yes, they would be charged anywhere else.
P.A. IT'S OWN COUNTRY?
WE HAVE A JUSTICE SYSTEM SET UP HERE IN AMERICA, IN CASE SOMEONE FORGOT TO TELL THE JUDGES & PROSECUTORS IN P.A.
SUPPRESSING EVIDENCE TO MANIPULATE A VERDICT IS NOT PART OF IT. HOW THIS CAN HAPPEN & BE GOTTEN AWAY WITH IS BEYOND MY COMPREHENSION. IT SHOWS A SERIOUS DECLINE & DISRESPECT FOR THE LAWS OF THE LAND. THIS JUDGE NEEDS TO BE REMOVED FROM THEIR SEAT & THE PROSECUTOR NEEDS TO BE DISBARRED. i AM GOING TO WRITE TO THE GOVERNOR & IF THAT DOES NOT WORK I WILL GO HIGHER UP THE CHAIN OF COMMAND.
WAY TO GO TAMMY! THANK YOU FOR STANDING YOUR GROUND & STANDING UP FOR WHAT IS RIGHT.
WITH ALL THE "FALLEN HEROES" IN THE NEWS LATELY, OUR CHILDREN NEED TO SEE SOMEONE GOOD DOING THE RIGHT THING NO MATTER THE COST! YOUR PARENTS SHOULD BE PROUD OF YOU! I KNOW AS AN AMERICAN CITIZEN, I AM.
DRIVE AND COMMITMENT FOR ANIMAL WALFARE
I have to say that after reading all of the posts, especially the posts from those who support and promote the abuse, torture, neglect and killing of both animals and humans, I now have even more of a drive and commitment to protect animals. Animals who need compassionate people to take a stand in support of their rights! All these hateful people are doing is uniting animal welfare advocates and making our commitment to the animals much stronger. So, for that, I say thank you to those who do not care for animals. Because your hate for their right to live a wonderful life, free of abuse, neglect, torture and killing, you are only strengthening our cause.
Tammy Grimes IS the Rosa Parks of Animal Welfare!
I thought animal welfare was abysmal in North Carolina (where I live), but reading about Tammy's trial was enough to make me sick to my stomach. Reading the comments of the idiotic judge & proscutor, I thought my head would explode! How can people in this day & age (& in a "civilized" country) be such imbeciles?? How can ANYONE justify leaving a helpless dog to die alone in the mud?? Voters in PA, please do what you can to get rid of these morons!!
Tammy Grimes deserves THANKS!!
To take an elderly dog writhing in pain from the end of a thick chain and give it back dignity and care, clean it, show it affection, administer medicine and help it to stand once again, which directly prolonged the dog's life, is one of the kindest things I have ever heard.
Tammy called for help long before she took action of this nature and for that she has been sentenced by the law for a non-existent crime! Crime is what is going on all around you, can't you people see that? Crime is when dogs are set on fire and beaten to a pulp, starved and used in dog fights, crime is what we are all living through in this harsh and difficult world, day in and day out. This lady has committed no crime, she saved a dying dog. Wake up you haters and start living a compassionate life! Tammy did the right thing, any sane person knows this, stop speaking up for people that abused their dog and get over it. Tammy Grimes reached out in this animal's hour of need, it's what a million others would do faced with the same situation, she happened to be the one that WAS there and she made a difference. What did you do today to make a difference?
If this is what you call a thief then what do you call the people that dump their dogs or move away and leave them inside an empty house with no food or water? I guess you'd call them good people would you? What do you call those that don't spay and neuter their pets and who end up with litters of pups that find their way to the kill shelter? I guess you'd call them responsible? Animal abuse is everywhere, crime is everywhere, ignorant uncaring human beings outnumber decent people. So this girl is compassionate and she saved a dog. Would you rather she left it to become a dead dog buried in the backyard whose pain and suffering went unnoticed by everyone? You really are some pieces of work posting negative comments on this site when it is obvious the only option for a kind, balanced, intelligent and normal human being is to intervene if severe suffering is witnessed.
I think the true nature of a lot of you people is shining through, you don't really believe that a dog is entitled to a dignified life or death. The sentencing bears this out. But all over the world people agree with Tammy and agree that this dog's life was worth saving, no matter how old, Doogie was a living being and he thankfully left this earth knowing he was loved. Tammy is suffering the usual backlash that all people with notoriety receive from the public when their name becomes well known, it's called the bad side of human nature, however, notoriety is not the issue, Tammy's good deed IS and she will go down in history for making a stand for a neglected animal that even the authorities would not remove to SAFETY!!
Tammy Grimes has put animals on the map in your part of the world and you should be proud of that. I have no doubt that due to her wonderful work and her conduct in this case she will change laws for the better for chained dogs, that's a good thing, so I suggest all you people who think it's ok to leave your dog tied up with no food or water - and no LIFE, go get cracking on making some adjustments to your pets living quarters, because this is a benchmark case and it will end a lot of suffering in the years ahead.
The prosecutors may believe they have won the day but the dogs have truly won because better animal protection will come thanks to the selfless actions of a dedicated and very special human being. Yes, DOGS DO DESERVE BETTER and nobody in their right mind can argue that. The law must protect the innocent from abuse and neglect, not the perpetrators of cruelty.
Since this case I am sure everybody has noticed the amount of dogs on chains, but even better than that I bet everyone takes a second look to make sure the dogs look healthy and well cared for! That's how things get changed, through EDUCATION! And this case has certainly done that. Go Tammy, we support you one hundred and fifty per cent!
And thank you to ALL humane beings, without you animals would not stand a chance.
If this were a child laying
If this were a child laying on the ground bleeding to death and you called for help and it didn't arrive after an hour, should you put your child in your car and drive them to the hospital or wait? If you take it to the hospital, it is kidnapping and you will go to jail.
Laura
Yes, I would
I'd go to jail to save a child, but not a dog. And I would accept my sentence and pay my fines.
Tammy is a True Hero
Anyone that can look at the pictures of Doogie and read the horrific conditions he was living in, and think that Tammy committed any type of crime, has absolutely no compassion for any living things.
I ask of those that agree with the Judge's sentence, would you be willing to spend one week, or even one day, chained by your neck, in filthy living conditions, with no human interaction, with no ability to free yourself, with no end in site?
Now remember, you can't yell or go run and get a police officer and tell them you are scared and alone. You can't just undo the chain around your neck. You are stuck there in a never ending hell. Well would you volunteer for that life?
Now imagine you had no choice. Imagine someone scooped you up and decided this was going to be your life every single day.
I bet there is not one human out there that would choose that life for themselves. I would love to see the people that owned Doogie spend just a small amount of time in his shoes. I guarantee you they would not last one day.
So what gives any human the right to thrust that lifestyle upon a helpless creature. It appears that one day on a whim they decided they wanted a dog and then the next that dog became too much of a burden to take real care of.
These dogs are completely helpless without us. They have no ability to ask for anything, they can't go tell someone they are being abused and tortured. They rely on us to care for and love them.
Anyone that has ever had a dog as a pet knows that these creatures will lay down their lives for their owners. All they ask in return is for compassion. A nice warm place to sleep, a scratch behind the ears now and then - is that really too much to ask for in return for a lifetime of love an affection?
Whether you agree with me or not, animals have feelings and emotions just like we do and they deserve to get the basic care that any human would get if not more because they are so dependent on us.
If you are so ignorant to think that we are so superior and that dogs do not deserve to be treated with care and respect and that they do not have the basic right to be treated humanely, then my advice is to never ever get an animal as a pet. You will never be able to give it the love and affection it will need.
Don't be suprised if someday you have some careless person taking care of you in a nursing home that decides that they don't quite feel like taking care of you like they should. They don't feel like bringing you food or water or takign you to the bathroom when you need to go. It happens everyday and maybe someday those uncompassiomate monsters will finally get what they deserve. Remember what goes around comes around.
Doogie I know you are up there looking down wagging your tail, finally free, in support of all that Tammy and DDB has done for dogs out there just like you.
Tammy you are an angel - keep fighting for those who cannot fight for themselves!
Laws Laws Laws...WHO's LAWS?
First of all the neighbor gave the LAW a few calls and got no action. Tammy got a call, came out and called the LAW herself. The LAW didn't come. She did what written LAW told her to do. NO RESPONSE. She then ACTED on the LAW in her heart, she saw a living being in dire need of medical care, she took it to the veterinarian for proper care. There was evidence of long term NEGLECT. If she would have done nothing, she too would have been GUILTY of NEGLECT.
The world will never be a better place if people don't ACT to change it. ACTION brings change, not FEAR to ACT.
May I ask all of you that feel Tammy did not get a harsh enough sentence, what are you doing on a site that advocates the life of an animal be free from cruelty and neglect, when you do not see this as it is. Do you believe animals should be able to "LIVE and DIE" free of neglect and cruelty REGARDLESS of OWNERSHIP? As the humans in charge of their care as a whole, then all animals become no longer "property" but our RESPONSIBILITY to ensure their welfare in LIFE and DEATH, regardless of ownership per say.
So then it would be AGAINST the LAW NOT to ACT.
Tammy ACTED on a LAW more powerful than any written law, the law IN us. This is what brings CHANGE. ACTIONS. What kind of LAW says it is BETTER to turn away from A suffering LIFE(in death)???
Are PROPERTY LINES the problem here? Is a living thing(or dying thing)in distress REALY PROPERTY? Whether it be a bunny or a horse is there a definitive PROPERTY LINE when it comes to providing help when there is none??
If these WRITTEN laws override the laws of the heart, the world will NEVER change. The written laws WILL eventually change to reflect a conscientious, caring world and PENALIZE those who "do nothing". It is Tammy's ACTION and the ACTIONS of others that WILL bring AWARNESS and CHANGE. I would hope that if my neighbor saw my animal in medical need that they would ACT and do the right thing for my animal. Kim, Minnesota
Punishment
She didn't get punished enough for breaking the laws of society to follow the "law in her head".
FOR ABUSERS AND SUPPORTERS OF ABUSERS -
For those who say (and seem to believe what they say), that this dog was SO loved by the Arnolds, and that the only reason it didn't get up is because it was sleeping, or just didn't want to get up for Tammy, you really must educate yourselves on this case. If this dog was being treated by a vet via the Arnold's, then tell me why any self-respecting vet would EVER allow a dogs nails to grow so long that they were curled UNDER his pads? NO dog could walk with nails like that and THAT is only a small portion of evidence - PROOF that this dog was suffering at the hands of the Arnold's. Feces embedded in it's hair, a filthy, empty food bowl and an equally filthy water pail with water so rancid, rats wouldn't drink it. This is so inhumane. Ask yourselves a question. Would you treat your wife, husband, partner, mother, father or children in this manor? If you wouldn't, then why would you subject an animal to such a horrific existence? ALL life is created equal - we all breath the same air, walk the same planet. Domesticated animals rely on us to proved love, food, water and shelter and do not deserve the abuse that some humans inflict upon them. Treat all life the way YOU would want to be treated. It is not a question of status, race, or socio-economics. It is not a rich/poor issue. It is, however, an issue of ethics. If you cannot properly care for an animal, you should not have one until you are able. We, as a society need to show more compassion for all living things.
Ever occur to you why some of us can be this much concerned with animals suffering? Because government is not. Why not? Animals don't vote. ~Paul Harvey
Animals give me more pleasure through the viewfinder of a camera than they ever did in the crosshairs of a gunsight. And after I've finished "shooting," my unharmed victims are still around for others to enjoy. I have developed a deep respect for animals. I consider them fellow living creatures with certain rights that should not be violated any more than those of humans. ~Jimmy Stewart
The fact that man knows right from wrong proves his intellectual superiority to the other creatures; but the fact that he can do wrong proves his moral inferiority to any creatures that cannot. ~Mark Twain, What Is Man, 1906
The animals of the world exist for their own reasons. They were not made for humans any more than black people were made for white, or women created for men. ~Alice Walker
Animals can communicate quite well. And they do. And generally speaking, they are ignored. ~Alice Walker
Heaven is by favor; if it were by merit your dog would go in and you would stay out. Of all the creatures ever made [man] is the most detestable. Of the entire brood, he is the only one... that possesses malice. He is the only creature that inflicts pain for sport, knowing it to be pain. ~Mark Twain
The human spirit is not dead. It lives on in secret.... It has come to believe that compassion, in which all ethics must take root, can only attain its full breadth and depth if it embraces all living creatures and does not limit itself to mankind. ~Albert Schweitzer, Novel Peace Prize address, "The Problem of Peace in the World Today"
We must fight against the spirit of unconscious cruelty with which we treat the animals. Animals suffer as much as we do. True humanity does not allow us to impose such sufferings on them. It is our duty to make the whole world recognize it. Until we extend our circle of compassion to all living things, humanity will not find peace. ~Albert Schweitzer, The Philosophy of Civilization
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated."
"To my mind, the life of a lamb is no less precious than that of a human being."
Mahatma Gandhi, statesman and philosopher
"Non-violence leads to the highest ethics, which is the goal of all evolution. Until we stop harming all other living beings, we are still savages."
Thomas Edison, inventor
Curled nails?
One person says the nails are curled and you all jump in like the sheeple you are and mimic it. You don't know what the nails looked like. If they were so bad, why didn't someone trim them? I'll tell you why, because you are more interested in railroading the Arnolds than you are in saving Jake. It's all about politics. But it didn't work did it? Good!
CURLED NAILS
LOOK AT THE VIDEO AND PHOTOS...THE NAILS ARE CURLED. WHY DON'T YOU ASK TE ARNOLDS WHY THE DID NOT TRIM THEM??? EDUCATE YOURSELF BEFORE YOU POST IGNORANCE.
Curled nails?
That's still no excuse for theft.
Suffering
So, people should have just allowed the animal to suffer in it's own sh*t, unable to stand. Because it is obvious the poor dog was left to die by the Arnolds, which is neglect and abuse. Are you saying if someone were inflicting this kind of abuse on one of your family members, you would just allow it to happen because someone stepping in to save them would be against the law??
Tammy did the only thing she could
As I read some of these comments I just hope that if anything happens to someone I love, that Tammy will be the one who helps them.
Dogs, cats and other living, breathing creatures are not a possession. They are the same as we! They breath the same air, bleed the same as we. So for Tammy just to turn her back on this sick dog would have gone against everything she believes in. I think if she had all of her members would have been shocked too.
We are a sad society that we would think in terms of whether we should help a creature just because they happen to be on someone's property is down right stupid. We all know that our laws are pretty bad in the first place, so to just walk away from this suffering wasn't going to happen.
32% said that Tammy got what she deserved, what about the people who didn't take care of 'their' dog? These people left him out in the cold to die all alone? What about them. Are we forgetting that these people are the guilty ones? Not only have we lost our morals, we have lost all sense of right and wrong. Wake up America and start making changes that will benefit others and not just ourselves.
Tammy I stand behind you all the way. As for the judge that sentenced you, she is just as guilty as the owners.
DO THE RIGHT THING!
Elizabeth Ferrari
Thief
I love the fact that the thief has to do community service helping the very creatures she despises - humans. Perhaps she will learn some compassion.
Please read the following
Tammy obviously has a wealth of compassion for both animals and people as she spearheads campaigns to help educate people, provide fencing for their yards so their dogs can finally know life off a chain, provides food and treats for those animals. Please inform yourself before you make statements such as you did.