The Review Appeal Editorial

One puppy is often a handful, keeping track of the active youngster and making sure all its needs are met, whether for food, for play or for care.

Williamson County Animal Control is run by a great group of professionals, assisted by ably trained volunteers, but for any group, caring for 230 animals in varying stages of health would be a challenge.

Since late January, WCAC has cared for that many animals in addition to its daily duties to Williamson County and its animal population. The staff is taxed to its limits, but the job they are doing has gained worldwide attention and continues to draw support in varying ways.

More than $14,585 has been donated in money and services to care for the animals and provide relief for the staff at WCAC. Area veterinary clinics, businesses with laundry capabilities, housing units for the animals as well as individuals have all jumped in to help.

We know the attention this case has drawn nationwide when we review the names on the list and see television legend Dick Clark and his wife, Kari, alongside local volunteers. National Maltese organizations also are trying to take care of their own, offering support of both a financial and volunteer manner.

While no charges have been brought against dog breeder Jennifer Siliski, the county should take every action to ensure the taxpayers are not burdened with the cost of caring for the 230 animals seized from her home in late January.

When appropriate, the county should take whatever legal means available — placing a lien against her home or personal property — to ensure it is reimbursed. This may take years since Siliski apparently has used multiple identities in her business dealings and property listings, but it should be a significant issue with county authorities.

The animals are Siliski’s property and some people are just beginning to realize they may be returned to her, along with her four children. Prosecutors are attempting to research every issue involved in this case before deciding how to proceed and that is the right move to make.

It may be more prudent to prosecute her for a limited number of cases and that may mean only a certain, more manageable number of animals have to be maintained for evidence. This could lead to the return of the other animals, but with the vigilant job WCAC officials, and others, have done the situation may be OK.

For those who wish to support WCAC, monetary donations can be sent to any Franklin National Bank location. Checks should be made payable to WCAC Rescue Fund.

To donate supplies, WCAC very much needs towels, newspapers, soft toys, hand-held can openers, hypo-allergenic shampoo, conditioner, dog food, cat food and medical supplies. Supply donations can be shipped or delivered to the shelter between 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Williamson County Animal Control is located at 138 Claude Yates Drive in Franklin. If you want to volunteer your time, contact WCAC between 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. at 790-5590 to apply.

Whichever way you can help, now is the time.