BURNIE’S STORY:
Studies have shown strong links between animal abuse and domestic violence. Furthermore,
young people who torture animals are at higher risk for committing crimes against
humans later in life. Unfortunately, we know this firsthand because of Burnie, our
canine mascot.
BURNADETTE (“Burnie”), is a survivor of cruelty to animals by minors.
In 1996, two young teens tied Burnie to a tree, doused her with gasoline and
set her on fire. Luckily a police officer caught them in the act and immediately
brought Burnie to HHS. Although she had third-degree burns, our HHS Clinic
staff saved her life and began the process of rehabilitation. Throughout the
dressing changes and other treatments, Burnie remained friendly and loving
to everyone. Ever since, she has taken her job seriously: visiting schools,
appearing at special events, selling Animals’ Kingdom merchandise, and
writing her own column in the HHS Companion newsletter. In her spare time,
Burnie teases resident kitties, plays with foster dogs, helps herself to staff
lunches and has even won first place several times in our annual K-9 Fun
Run. Burnie is now safe and very much loved, as all animals should be.