Key movers of Deans law are Dean, front, with owner Jessica Raiten, left,
Richard Chiger, Ward, Ann and Jim Culligan
MONTICELLO – After months of studying and tweaking, Sullivan County joined a growing list of counties and municipalities in New York State to keep track of people who abuse animals. Dean’s law was adopted unanimously by the county legislature on Thursday.
Legislator Teri Ward, who proposed Dean’s Law, thanked several county officials, in particular the county attorney staff, and District Attorney James Farrell, for input in putting the law in workable form. Ward also thanked Ann Culligan, one of many citizen activists pushing for the law.
Culligan was delighted but wished their version of the law had a bit more bite.
“I realize farm animals are not included in this law but I understand why,” Culligan said. “Let me remind you, good farmers respect and care for them. Hunters, please hunt for food, not for a trophy. In my eyes, trapping should not be legal at any time.
Also delighted with the law was its namesake, Dean, a Rotty mix who survived horrible abuse and is now happy and healthy with a caring new owner.
Neighboring Orange and Ulster counties already have similar registry laws.
Culligan said she has been approached by people in Dutchess County who are looking to craft a similar provision to track animal abusers.
