There is now a multi-agency team targeting animal cruelty, neglect, licensing, and welfare and it is armed with a strong law and penalties to protect the Island's silent population.

With the passage of amendments to the Dogs Act and animal cruelty legislation, the Bermuda Police Service, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals have joined forces to combat the growing problem of animal cruelty.

In addition, Dog Warden Jeffrey Benevides is now responsible for dog licensing, taking over from the Post Office. The team now has the power to stop anyone walking with a dog to check if the dog has a valid licence and any property where animals are kept is liable to search.

The team of Mr. Benevides, Police Animal Protection Officer Yvonne Ricca, and SPCA Inspector Charles Whited can enter a property without a warrant if they have information that an offence is being committed.

"We want to inform the public that all three agencies will be carrying out an Island-wide initiative to ensure all animals are being cared for in the proper manner,'' Mr. Whited explained.

Horse stable owners have already received letters warning them that if their stables are not in order under the law they will have their licences withdrawn.

Police Animal Protection Officer Yvonne Ricca added: "As a unit we will be visiting commercial stables, private stables, dairy farms, every property.

"We will maintain a zero tolerance approach to any person found committing an offence under the animal related laws,'' she continued. "The penalties for various offences of cruelty if found guilty can be up to $1,000 in fines or one year in jail.

Mr. Benevides explained that until now, the law allowed for two dogs per dwelling or assessment number -- meaning there could be eight dogs in one four-apartment complex: "That has now changed because from now on you are allowed only two dogs on a zoned lot. If you wish to have more than two dogs on a property you have to have permission.'' Mr. Benevides said dog-breeding laws will be enforced with only licensed dog dealers being able to mate dogs.

People with information about the abuse or neglect of animals should call Crime Stoppers number at 1-800-623-8477, or Mr. Whited at the SPCA on 236-7333, Mr. Benevides on 236-4201 or P.c. Ricca on 296-3158.