HILO, Hawaii (AP) - A Big Island councilwoman introduced a resolution this week to recognize animals as “sentient beings,” but quickly withdrew it because of a lack of support.
Puna councilwoman Eileen O’Hara says she wanted to “set the tone” for how the county deals with animal welfare, the Hawaii Tribune-Herald reported Wednesday.
Other council members say they support humane treatment of animals but were uncomfortable with language in the measure giving animals rights.
People were interested in these podcasts
Kohala Councilman Tim Richards, who is a veterinarian, says the county would be getting itself into a “quagmire” if it gives animals the proposed rights.
O’Hara told the Tribune-Herald that the measure was in part intended to influence the county’s next animal control contract. O’Hara said she will change the wording based on feedback from her colleagues.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.