Abused Animals Get Advocates
In Cook County, Illinois, animal abuse cases are increasing. As their numbers rise, some citizens are stepping in to speak for those who are unable to do so for themselves. In Illinois, they are known as Dog Advisory Work Group Court Advocates, or DAWGs. Any citizen at least 18 years old is eligible to advocate on behalf of an abused animal. Advocates are trained in animal abuse laws and sentencing guidelines and may intervene when the crimes aren’t being properly punished.
The increase in animal abuse cases stems from the jurisdiction’s newly strengthened animal abuse laws. Animal abuse cases involve dog-fighting, neglect, sexual abuse, and other types of inhumane mistreatment.
