The rise in animal abuse cases has led to the formation of a new voluntary police unit aimed at protecting four-legged creatures in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area.
The unit’s volunteers will patrol neighborhoods, raise awareness among pet owners and help rescue animals in distress.
As part of the joint initiative of the Mesubim police station and the Gush Dan Veterinary Services, the volunteers also will undergo special veterinary and civil guard training.
“Awareness regarding proper care for animals and the protection of animal rights is lacking, as is the enforcement of the animal welfare law,” says Dr. Moshe Rafaelovich, head of the Gush Dan Veterinary Services. “We receive many reports of injured animals on the street and abused dogs and cats, but the medical attention they receive is deficient.
“In dealing with animal abuse, it is not enough to focus on the abusing individuals. The injured animals themselves must be treated and rehabilitated,” he said.
According to Rafaelovich, as part of the civil guard the volunteers will be granted authority equivalent to that of a police officer. He said the unit should be up and running in a few weeks. — ynetnews.com