Dear Editor:
After reading the article in The Baker County Press last week concerning Baker County Animal Control, I would like to share my experience.
For nearly a decade I have had frequent interaction with Georgia Monfort and other animal control personnel, most recently Mr. Self. I regularly foster puppies for them and call for advice when I have unexpected “guests” that need to be trapped and removed from my property.
They have always been caring and kind. In fact, animals are shown for adoption at county events, including the upcoming Baker County Fair.Anyone who speaks negatively about animal control does not have a good understanding of what goes on there. This agency does amazing things with what they have to work with. Does this mean animals have to be euthanized? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. The majority of these animals are the result of irresponsible pet owners who think they are not accountable for over breeding and subsequently abandoning unwanted animals.
There is a huge misconception by many in the county that spaying or neutering is a bad thing. Nothing could be further from the truth!
The article mentioned that Ms. Monfort does not allow people who have volunteered to help with the animals or to foster animals. That simply is not true. The liability to the county makes it difficult and time consuming. Any animal with teeth or claws is capable of biting or scratching someone. It would only be a matter of time before the county found itself in a lawsuit if she randomly “handed out” animals to anyone who asked.
Rather than finding fault, perhaps our county manager can find some solutions, like holding pet owners accountable. If their animal is picked up, they should have to pay for the animal to be spayed or neutered.
I’m sure there are many ideas to help the situation. Ms. Monfort is doing a wonderful job and it is a shame more people do not know it. She does not deserve the criticism she has received in the past for doing her job.
Louise Elliott
Macclenny