Rescue can take an animal out of danger, but the cost of treating injuries or illnesses they’ve suffered can be a barrier to their recovery. Now, animals saved from abuse or neglect in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, have a new source of funding for the veterinary care they need.
On Sept. 22, the Cuyahoga County Council unanimously approved up to $25,000 for the Abused and Neglected Animal Health Restoration Fund. The award comes from District 11’s American Rescue Plan community grant fund and will go to the County Prosecutor’s Office Animal Crimes Unit.
Established in January, the Animal Crimes Unit focuses solely on animal-related crimes, including felony cruelty and neglect cases involving companion animals and dogfighting. It supports police departments throughout the county, animal control officers, and the Cleveland Animal Protective League as they investigate suspected cruelty. The unit also reviews all cases and prosecutes them when warranted.
This crucial funding could help those animals receive the treatment they require while investigators pursue accountability for the cruelty they endured.
Lady Freethinker is grateful to see Cuyahoga County help give animal survivors a chance to heal from mistreatment and enjoy a healthy, happy future.
