Cat cruelty

Once again, animal cruelty has reared its ugly head in our community.

I just learned that the day after Thanksgiving, a six-month old kitten, trapped in Sliters Hardware Store for a week was bludgeoned to death by store manager Tim Dalton Sr. After biting three employees it was clubbed. Apparently either Sliters doesn't stock gloves or the staff is unaware of how to use them. Ever hear of "gentle trap?" According to the report issued by Flathead County Animal Control, the kitten, presumed dead, was brought to their shelter by a Sliters employee to have it tested for rabies. It regained consciousness briefly, but because of the extent of its injuries had to be euthanized. I am sickened by this disgusting and criminal act of cruelty. I want to point out that there are considerable resources in he county and Bigfork especially, to humanely deal with stray pet issues. There are numerous volunteers in Bigfork who spend countless hours rescuing, humanely trapping, housing and providing spay and neuter services for stray, lost or feral cats.

It is now up to the County Attorney Ed Corrigan to pursue criminal action as provided in Montana State Cruelty Statue 45.8.211. Mr. Corrigan did not step forward and act when a local landscaper was caught red-handed poisoning deer on his property. I dearly hope that he will step up to the plate this time and do the right thing. I encourage everyone with a heart to make your feelings known to him by phone or mail.

Michael Michlig

Bigfork