Save our Bronx animal shelter

To the editor:

The Bronx has more than 1.4 million residents, yet does not have its own animal shelter.

Now, finally, the city proposed a state-of-the-art facility located at 2050 Bartow Ave., that will have 200 homeless animals. 

Also, it will provide low-cost veterinary services and programs to help owners avoid surrendering their pets for reasons that can be resolved.

In addition, both youth and seniors can benefit emotionally and physically as animal shelter volunteers.

The need for this facility is evident in the long lines, even in harsh weather, around Fordham Plaza for the low-cost vet mobile that treats limited number of pets on a first-come, first-served basis. This is not just a Community Board 10 issue, but a borough-wide issue.

On May 20, at the CB10 housing and zoning committee hearing, there were yelps of anger that people take priority over animals, and that the city didn’t consult with them first. The same sentiments were expressed by Community Board 7 in 2008 that voted against an animal shelter at the old library location. 

In addition, real estate interests and a hired gun lobbyist are part of the discussion to take the site away from the proposed Bronx animal shelter.

Without more community support at the next public hearing June 15, and without the actions of elected officials who spoke words of support in the past, the Bronx will lose its animal shelter. 

An animal shelter is not a luxury, but a necessity in a civilized society. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “The greatness of a nation ... can be judged by the way its animals are treated.”

Roxanne Delgado

The authors represents Bronx Animal Rights Electors.