I firmly believe that there is a desperate lack of help for the animal control portion of the Lewiston Police Department.

From what I have seen, it appears to be grossly understaffed, and I would have to believe that the reason is a lack of funding or a lack of concern from the general public.

I have recently become aware of this because I found a grotesquely emaciated cat on my porch. When I called for help for this clearly desperate and needy animal, I was told that they animal control office is closed on the weekends and to try again on Monday. Then I was told that the animal control officer was on vacation.

I befriended and fed the cat, but for many reasons cannot actually take this loving and deformed cat into my home. His mouth is missing all the teeth on one side and is sealed shut on the other.

A lovely lady who runs a cat rescue would come to get the poor creature, but I know from having received assistance from her in the past that this is a burden she can afford no better than I can.

The Greater Androscoggin Humane Society is no better off. They need new facilities and are always in need of more funding. People need to be aware of these problems and help support those who care.

Heather Berube, Auburn

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