Animal hoarders need special help

To the editor:

Thank you for reporting on the allegedly neglected and starving animals rescued from an Illinois couple ("Illinois pair charged with animal torture").

Those responsible in cases like this are often animal hoarders, people who amass large numbers of animals, fail to meet their basic needs and don't recognize when the situation becomes abusive and a health threat. Experts agree that mental-health disorders may play a part in hoarding cases.

Even after their animals are removed, hoarders have a relapse rate of nearly 100 percent, according to Dr. Gail Steketee, a professor at Boston University's School of Social Work. Mandatory counseling and a ban on owning or harboring animals are vital in preventing hoarders from reverting to their abusive behavior. Fortunately, Illinois defines hoarding as a crime and mandates psychological evaluations for convicted hoarders.

We can help prevent hoarding and other abuses by spaying and neutering animals and notifying authorities at the first sign of cruelty. For more ways to help, visit HelpingAnimals.com.

DAN PADEN, Cruelty Caseworker, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, Norfolk, Va.