PREVENTION OF CRUELTY.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21264, 19 February 1931, Page 17

PREVENTION OF CRUELTY.

SOCIETY’S ANNUAL REPORT. The forty-ninth annual report of the Otago Society for the Prevention oi Cruelty to Animals states: — The society continues to receive the generous support of the public, although the amount of subscriptions received during the period under review shows a slight decrease, the membership this year being 1500 compared with 1530 last year. During the year 61 cases of alleged cruelty were inquired into, compared with 69 eases in 1929, 81 in 1928, 95 in 1927, and 103 in 1926. It is felt that the decreased number of cases is proof that the society’s efforts in the past are bearing fruit. Of the 61 cases investigated by the inspector 30 were consilium! not sufliciently maintained to warrant cautions or other action, three cases were not proceeded with for lack of evidence, and 28 persons were cautioned for various offences. The committee again distributed pamphlets on kindness to animals among the primary schools throughout Otago, and it has been encouraged by receiving letters from the head teachers of a number ox the schools stating that tne pamphlets have been much appreciated. Animal welfare work week was held during the last week in October, pamphlets and circulars were distributed to the schools throughout Otago, and teachers were requested to address their pupils during the week. Ministers and superintendents of Sunday schools were also writtten to asking them to bring before their congregations and Sunday school scholars the necessity of kindness to animals. It is understood that in most cases this was The committee again took special steps to urge the Government to bring down a Bill for the compulsory dehorning of cattle, but it regrets that so far the legislation has not been placed on the Statute Book. , During the year the society received the sum of £l5O, being part of the legacy bequeathed the society by its late president (Sir George Fenwick). The sum of £25 was also bequeathed to the society by Miss C. Olive Mallock. It is with regret the society has to refer to the death of Mr H. Boyd, a life member of the society, and the members deepest sympathy is extended to his relatives. ~, T _ . To the inspector (Mr J. Craig) groat credit is again due for the tact, energy, and perseverance displayed by him in carrying out his important work and for tlie manner in which he has kept up the society’s membership. Mr W. 1). Snowball. ii vice-president of the society, has continued to place his expert knowledge at the disposal of the society, which is greatly appreciated. Eleven meetings of the committee were held during the year, and were well attended. The finances of the society are in a satisfactory position.