SOLANCONEWS.com -- Cutler's Commentary

Cutler's Commentary: Hoping to Keep a Deer Friend
By Bryan Cutler, State Representative, 100th Legislative District
HARRISBURG -- As a state legislator, I am never quite sure what issues will come up, and I must say that there are times when my office is asked to get involved in very unique situations. That is certainly true in the case of “Baby,” the 10-month-old piebald fawn I was recently contacted about.

The story of Baby has captivated the county and has even garnered attention from Gov. Ed Rendell. I have also contacted the governor’s office regarding Baby. Following is text of the letter I sent to the governor:

“Dear Governor Rendell:

As I am sure you are aware, a resident of my district has been caring for an abandoned deer for some months. The situation has recently come to the attention of the Game Commission, and many people believe it is the intention of the commission to destroy the deer, now being called ‘Baby.’

As a member of the House Game and Fisheries Committee, I share the Game Commission’s concerns about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) and the need to discourage citizens from removing deer from the wild; however, I see no reason for this particular deer to be destroyed.

While gathering data on Baby, a piebald deer, I have learned that the deer’s unique pattern and coloring result from a genetic abnormality that can also be accompanied by scoliosis, or a twisted spine. Baby’s unusual appearance is probably not attributable to CWD, but to scoliosis. As such, it is my hope that the Game Commission uses the story of Baby as a way to inform the public that it is illegal to raise wild deer, but that they do not destroy this rare creature.

It is my understanding that the Oregon Dairy, which already is home to other deer, has agreed to take in Baby. It is my belief that this is the most amicable solution to the question of what should happen to this deer.

If you have any questions or concerns about this issue, please feel free to contact me. I thank you in advance for your consideration in this situation.”

Although I am an advocate for hunting rights and am an avid sportsman myself, I am hopeful that the Game Commission and the Governor’s Office will work to find a humane solution to this issue, as it is clear that Baby is not your average deer.

Editor's Note: Cutler's Commentary is a monthly column, written by Rep. Cutler.

Past Articles:
Cutler's Commentary: Seeking Citizens' Suggestions
Cutler's Commentary: A Review of My First Month in Office