Snake deserves justice, not death penalty

To the editor:

I urge employees at the Madison County Circuit Clerk's office to extend justice to the snake who has reportedly taken up residence there ("Snake on the loose in Madison County courthouse," 8/11/09).

Blasting the snake (who is likely lost, hungry, and frightened) with a fire extinguisher or trying to catch the snake using glue traps is extremely cruel. Any animals unlucky enough to get stuck on a glue trap can suffer for days-starving, ripping off their skin, suffocating if their faces get stuck, or (in the case of rodents) chewing off their limbs in attempts to escape.

Animals don't deserve the death penalty for trespassing. The Madison County Circuit Clerk's office can keep out "uninvited visitors" humanely-and permanently-by sealing up cracks and holes in the building's walls and foundations, and keeping food and garbage in sealed, chew-proof containers.

This snake could easily be humanely live-trapped and released outdoors. If the building is animal-proofed, she won't return.

For more ways to live in harmony with wildlife, visit www.HelpingWildlife.com.

Martin Mersereau, Director
Cruelty Casework Division
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
Norfolk, VA