Dog killer spared petless life

A convicted puppy killer who agreed as part of his punishment never to own pets again didn't wind up with a lifetime ban after all.
A judge Thursday sentenced Kimanie Markeys Carter, 20, to a year in the workhouse and a two-year pet ban for killing 10 puppies last summer in St. Paul.
Ramsey County District Judge William Leary III did not order the lifetime ban because it would be impossible to enforce, prosecutors said.
In addition to the workhouse time and the pet ban, Leary also ordered two years of probation, a stayed 18-month prison sentence, a psychological evaluation and behavioral counseling.
"We would strongly prefer that the defendant in this case never own or possess a pet, but we understand the judge's decision," Ramsey County Attorney Chief of Staff Jack Rhodes said.

Going door-to-door to ensure pets' welfare

A change in the law will toughen up rules about how we care for animals. The News joined the RSPCA as owners were offered advice and practical help with their pets.
RSPCA inspectors know only too well how cruel some pet owners can be.
But as the law stands, they can only intervene and prosecute when they can prove cruelty, which often comes too late for the animals involved.
In April, the new Animal Welfare Act will force pet owners to meet their animals' basic needs, with a proper diet, suitable living space and live with or without animal companions, as appropriate.
It will also compel owners to care for pets in a way which allows them to express normal behaviour and take reasonable steps to protect them from pain, suffering, injury or disease.