Opossum Survives Violent Beating by Children

MILWAUKEE – A Milwaukee man brought a young Opossum to the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) last night with a horrific story. He saw several children kicking and beating a helpless animal in an alley near Burnham Street. The man was able to rescue the tiny girl from the terrible abuse and immediately brought her to the WHS Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. The children ran off and were not apprehended.

When Ellie the Opossum was first admitted, she was in shock and suffering from hypothermia; her condition has since improved and she is responding to treatment.

There is a strong and compelling link between cruelty to animals and violence toward humans. In the vast majority of cases, cruelty to animals is just one aspect of a social environment marked by violence. In fact, people who abuse animals are five times more likely to commit violent crime. When an animal is abused, not only does an innocent animal get injured, but the person who commits the offense often falls into a cycle that could ultimately result in violence against other people.

The Wisconsin Humane Society has a variety of educational programs to end the cycle of violence and teach children about compassion and respect for animals. In fact, nominations are now being accepted for the People Animals Learning (PAL) program. Milwaukee area teachers are invited to recommend underserved children for this summer program, in which students develop compassion and self-esteem while working with dogs, cats, wild animals and each other. For more information about PAL, please call (414) 431-6159.

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Photo/Filming Opportunity: A WHS Wildlife representative is available to answer questions regarding Ellie’s status. Ellie is also available for filming and/or photos this afternoon. Please contact Jennifer at (414) 431-6123 or jfeurer@wihumane.org to schedule an appointment.