26/ NOVEMBER 2013 THE RIDER For All Concerned...


By, Janice B Wright, CanteringOnThru You may recall a


recent article by The Rider that focused on thoughts of “Righting a Wrong”. The report related to


stories that are swept up in a frenzy by the media when an investigation of allegations has been deemed necessary. Even before, or during the


investigation — particu- larly when it is presented as a “shocking allega- tions” story — the regur- gitated media statements suspecting foul play from the onset causes many eyebrows to be raised prematurely. In today’s world, the


stir of undermining through preconceived statements reported via the media, or, “I heard it


through the grapevine!” lead many of us to thoughts of intense nega- tivity towards others in the industry. Considering


the


events that led up to and continue with one such investigation, allegations towards Veterinarian Sharon Kopinak of Talk- ing Horse Farm located in Erin County, Ontario, is an example of how the


media storm contributes to prejudging before con- sidering the damage to ones’ reputation along the way. Here’s a brief recap. Early September


2013, three people had visited the Rockwood area barn. They saw turned out horses grazing, with access to water and hay. Inside the barn though, there was a shock: approximately a dozen, gaunt horses with no access to hay or water


in their stalls...and this became the focus of their attention. Rightly so. Among these horses, a couple with open leg sores, and, at a time of extremely warm weather, the weakened horses were surrounded by flies. The concerned visi-


tors took it upon them- selves to take photos, thus validating the condition of the lethargic horses and the state of the barn. Armed with distraught reports and coinciding photos, all three made statements to the Welling- ton OPP, and subsequent- ly, the proper authorities were alerted. Following protocol of investigating claims of neglect, or pos- sible abuse towards ani- mals,


the OSPCA


(Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals),


Guelph


Humane Society and last- ly, College of Veterinari- ans, all launched a series of investigations. Sadly, what took


over in the interim of investigations were the ‘ shoot - f rom- the-hip’ comments by way of media. While authorities


gather data, privacy is instated to protect the integrity of the investiga- tion. Yet, that didn’t stop speculation by social


media weaving a damning web of negativity...to the result of Dr. Kopinak, a respected veterinarian by many, receiving death threats. Now, fast forward to


the founded results of one investigation. The Ontario SPCA has concluded that horses owned by Dr. Sharon Kopinak “are get- ting the care they require as outlined under the Ontario SPCA Act.” To date, I have noth-


ing concrete to quote about the findings from the (local) Humane Soci- ety or the College of Vet- erinarians. Witnessed


and


reported cases of animal abuse have been publi- cized, and yes, disturbing- ly, many animals suffer horrific lives. That’s why the proper authorities are there for your questions, concerns and complaints. While the authorities


take time to seriously consider all correspon- dence, let’s not disregard fairness to all involved. Make it your duty to swiftly submit initial reports to the proper authorities, and please hold back on spreading the news. Although I agree it is


commendable to seek assistance with what at first glance appears to be


questionable; it is also commendable to respect ones’ privacy and rights. Social media should


not be encouraged to plow ahead without fair- ness towards all con- cerned. Any media with a power to sway the pub- lic’s view, or condemn someone on speculation without the proper author- ities engaged, leads to abuse of a persons’ rights and dignity. We were unable to


reach Dr. Kopinak for her concluded thoughts to date. No doubt, she’s had her fill of media. “Righting


a


Wrong”? Unfortunately, time moves on and we can only hope that the final decisions — are the right decisions. If you have any con-


cerns about questionable animal care, neglect, abuse or want to file a complaint, please contact the proper authorities first.


Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals www.ontariospca.ca College of Veterinarians of Ontario www.cvo.org or, your local Humane Society


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