Matt Albert: Ok... with apologies to all, I have been away from this page for a brief period of time, consumed with other cases. Im trying to read through things to figure out the latest developments, and am having a difficult time in doing so. Heres something that has come to light. Evidently, the NCSPCA will allow me to accept full liability of Bentley, and, with that, place him wherever I think is appropriate. However, that doesnt really change where we were as of couple weeks ago. Based upon all available evidence regarding Bentley, both myself, the SPCA, potential adopter Jackie Ralston, and others deeply involved with the case are of the strong mindset that Bentley NEEDS an experienced trainer and training program so that he can have a strong opportunity at rehabilitation. It was with that in mind why I started this page and then joined with others to begin fundraising on his behalf. I strongly feel he DESERVES a chance at life, having only suffered through the worst of humanity, by and large, to this point. Now, if anyone has changed their minds concerning that opinion, or if I have misunderstood someones position regarding that opinion, then let me know. While some of us differed on the likelihood as to whether Bentley would be capable of rehabilitation, his unpredictability and lethality made even me, as one of his strongest advocates, realize he needs a skilled professional to work with him extensively before he could possibly be adopted. This opinion was arrived at by spending a little time around Bentley, consulting with many professionals, and evaluating all evidence surrounding his bites. Without rehashing all the facts, which are on this page, my opinion hasnt changed. The issue was and always has been... finding him the right trainer. Some trainers were firm believers that he could recover, others werent... but for a litany of reasons, we couldnt find him a trainer. And I called God knows how many places, wrote a ton of emails, postings... all these names on the list have been tired already on numerous occasions.Best Friends? They sent a standard rejection letter. Villalobos? Same. Some trainers said they would do it, then backed out. The last guy we had did say yes, but wouldnt speak to me or anyone else, and would only go through a liason or friend of his to set up the arrangements. To me, as a lawyer who speaks face to face with all his clients, that sent a huge red flag that the actual trainer wouldnt speak to his prospective client. Anyway, Im not 100% sure of the new developments surrounding homeowners insurance, etc. Not sure what all that was about. But, Amy Lewis of the NCSPCA did say she would sign the dog over to me. So, are there any current plans in which people are willing to give Bentley a chance? Because, Ill gladly listen and assist in any way possible. If there is a good situation, Ill even be willing to consider assuming liability up to a certain point. But, and Im not saying this is the case, if Joe Schmoe who feels awful about the situation, and wants to adopt Bentley... then he better be willing to assume liability. Im a big believer in free will, and if someone wants to make a move that even I think would be very reckless and dangerous, I might be willing to let them do it if that is their desire. However, I would make sure others wouldnt be in danger, and I would not risk all my future earnings to support such a move. As of now, Kelly Lauckern and myself are going to reconnect with some sanctuaries and explore those possibilities. However, if anyone who has anyone else in the works, please let me know so that we can continue to try and find him the chance he deserves. Again, this undertaking has proven that having only a few people explore all the opportunities for Bentley has failed, unfortunately. So, I ask everyone to make all calls and use all connections possible, so that we could leave no stone unturned in finding Bentley the chance he deserves.
Posted on: Sat, 27 Dec 2014 22:38:40 +0000