A Cow Purchased On Craigslist By Students For A High School Prank Is Now Safe At The Hooved Animal Humane Society In Illinois
WAN
In what is being described as a high school senior prank gone wrong, a loose cow ran through the streets of the Village of Nilesin the north suburbs of Chicago on Thursday morning. Thankfully, the wayward cow was secured by local law enforcement with the assistance of a representative of the Historic Wagner Farm.
“HAHS is happy to share that we provided a safe landing spot for the cow that was found running at large in the Niles area. She is settling in nicely and enjoying a lush green pasture. We are grateful that the generosity of our supporters made this moment a reality for her,” HAHS, the first humane society established in the United States to focus specifically on large animals, shared on its Facebook page. While the primary focus is on horses, HAHS also welcomes goats, pigs, cows, alpacas and llamas as well.
The organization is now working on trying to find a loving forever home for the cow.
As per a statement sent to WAN from The Niles Police Department, the investigation revealed that the cow involved in the incident was purchased via Craigslist by the students involved. A pig was also purchased near Dixon, Illinois, and a student reportedly brought chickens to the school from his home. At this time, the status of the pig and chickens are unknown.
The Northridge Preparatory administration is conducting an internal investigation into the incident regarding those involved. The school administration reportedly refused to pursue any criminal charges. The school is managing the cleanup and removal of any animals within the school itself.
Making matters worse, Northridge Preparatory posted on social media about its recent Spring Hall Fest, during which everyone sadly participated in an afternoon pig roast.
This is yet another sad example of an educational institution not utilizing the opportunity to address that animal cruelty exists in many ways. Perhaps they need a lesson in compassion for all sentient beings.
The students, including juveniles, who were involved in this incident were issued Village of Niles ordinance citations with a mandatory appearance in Niles Adjudication Court to include; Curfew Violation, Disorderly Conduct, Animal Feces Accumulation-Not Permitted, and Prohibited Animal Species. Payment and fees for services rendered will be addressed at Niles Adjudication Court.
Unlike small animals, such as dogs and cats, hooved animals had little representation until the formation of the Hooved Animal Humane Society (HAHS). In 1973, HAHS was the driving force behind the passage of The Humane Care for Animals Act. Through the Illinois Department of Agriculture,this Act gives HAHS the legal authority to investigate claims of abuse and neglect and intervene when owners do not comply with a notice to remedy a situation.
