"We are not an animal rights or rescue group. We are not associated with any local shelter or national special interest group. What ties us all together is our interest in animal and humane welfare issues, and we are South Dakotans."
McNamara describes the newly formed South Dakota Coalition for Companion Animals as a group that encourages education, and is interested in legislation.
"I don't have all the answers when it comes to exactly how this should be written. What I do have is the ability to ask my representatives to help me find those answers. I'm asking other residents to do the same." McNamara said.
Saturday, November 7th the group encourages the public to meet at 2:00 pm at the Oak View Library, 3700 E 3rd St, in Sioux Falls. The meeting will continue to address contacting legislators along with more information addressing the rise in human to animal violence and it's ties to domestic violence.
"Those convicted of intentional malicious acts of torture against animals need to be held accountable for their actions. As South Dakotans, we do not tolerate acts of violence regardless of the target." says Tanya Beckman-Compson, SDCCA vice president.
Past meetings around the state have shown there is solid support for the effort. Attendees have many reasons for being interested in the topic. It often comes down to public safety, not just pet safety.
Sioux Falls resident Sharee Heier's concerns reflect that feeling.
"We need stricter consequences for those who hurt or neglect our pets and we need these consequences to follow them through out their life. As a mother, citizen, grandmother, woman, I need to know these people aren't working at my grandson's school, my mother's nursing home or sitting next to me at work." Heier said.
A second meeting for supporters only, and members of the SDCCA will be held at 6:00pm, November 7th at Sinful Things Gourmet Desserts, a new restaurant on Philips Ave. in Sioux Falls.
"We would like to see large supporter turn out at both meetings. The private meeting for supporters only will give those who haven't spoke up yet a chance to voice their concerns." said McNamara.
For more information on how to become involved visit www.sdcca.net. Supporters are encouraged to join the SDCCA mailing list for information on attending the private meeting.
