The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 66
Otago Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. — Fourth Annual Report
Otago Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Fourth Annual Report.
The Committee, in making this their Fourth Annual Report, have to point out with regret that there has again been a falling off both in the number of members and in the income of the Society. They believe, however, that this is due to the depressed times through which the Colony is passing rather than to a want of sympathy with the objects of the Society. There has been an increase in the number of juvenile associates, although not to the extent which was looked for.
Finding the difficulty in collecting funds, the Committee kept their expenses within the very narrowest limits, and thus they are enabled to close the financial year with a respectable balance. They feel, however, that if the Society is to do all the good of which it is capable there will have to be a considerable expenditure in printing and circulating cautions and appeals on behalf of our dumb clients.
During the past year 131 cases have been investigated, and 15 persons were prosecuted for various offences, all of whom, with one exception, were convicted. The particulars are given in the Inspector's report, which is presented herewith. A large number of complaints, when looked into, were not substantiated.
The change in the law which empowers a Magistrate to order the killing of incurable animals, has been of great advantage, and 7 horses and 6 dogs have been put out of misery by, or at the instigation of, the Inspector.
The Committee believe that there is a somewhat better feeling as to the treatment of dumb animals; but very much yet remains to be done.
A large part of the Inspector's time has been taken up in duties connected with the Benevolent Institution, but it is felt that it would be unwise to sacrifice the income from this source until times improve or, at any rate, until a more general interest is shown in the work of the Society.
It has been suggested that the Society should endeavour to get a part of the fines, but the Committee think that this would be a mistake, as it would give an opportunity to people to say that the Society was interested in procuring a conviction.
The number of members now on the list is 208, of whom there are 3 life members. There are also 37 juvenile associates.
The Committee have again to express their entire satisfaction with the Inspector, who continues to discharge his duty with zeal and tact. They would also point out that the thanks of the Society are clue to Mr. Weldon and the officers under him for their ready assistance, and also to your Honorary Solicitors and Veterinary Surgeons, who are at all times most ready to give their professional assistance when it is required.