COBDEN, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Aug. 20, 2013) - The Ontario SPCA executed a search warrant yesterday, August 19, at a Cobden property, in Renfrew County, after receiving a call of concern for the welfare of the animals on the property. The reptiles were found in poor living conditions and without adequate care. Under the authority of a veterinarian certificate and the Ontario SPCA Act, over 45 reptiles were removed, including bearded dragons, snakes, lizards and an American Alligator. Compliance orders, under authority of the Ontario SPCA Act, were written for the care of the remaining animals on the property.
The Ontario SPCA 's investigation is ongoing. The Society will ensure the animals involved receive the care they require under the authority of the Ontario SPCA Act. To protect the integrity of the investigation, no further information can be shared at this time.
As shared by Madeleine Meilleur, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services, Linda Jeffrey, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, and David Orazietti, Minister of Natural Resources, in their August 13, 2013 statement; across Ontario, the responsibility for dealing with exotic animals falls to individual municipalities, which each have their own approach to bylaws and enforcement.
"As one of the stakeholders, the Ontario SPCA has been asked to participate in the discussions on the importation and standardized regulation and licensing in respect to ownership of exotic animals in Ontario and across Canada," said Chief Inspector Connie Mallory, Ontario SPCA.
The Ontario SPCA does see cases involving exotic animals, both in small and large qualities of reptiles. In 2011 the Society participated in the relocation of a private exotic reptile collection in Welland Ontario. This collection was the largest the Society had ever seen and included two albino endangered crocodiles.
To view a video of the removal of the crocodiles visit the Ontario SPCA YouTube channel.
The Ontario SPCA reminds pet owners that if you have concerns for the welfare of your animal there are other alternatives than allowing an animal to go without adequate care. Contact your local Ontario SPCA to discuss our available services. To report cruelty please call 1-888-668-7722 or email your concern to cruelty@ospca.on.ca.
Ontario SPCA and Humane Society:
Protecting animals since 1873, Ontario SPCA is Ontario's Animal Welfare organization. A registered charity comprised of over 50 Communities.
Ontario SPCA is mandated under the Ontario SPCA Act to enforce animal welfare legislation and the Act provides Ontario SPCA Agents and Inspectors with police powers to do so.
Ontario SPCA provides leadership in animal welfare innovations including introducing high-volume spay/neuter services to Ontario and opening the Provincial Education and Animal Centre.
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Charitable Business Number 88969 1044 RR0002
Contact Information:
Ontario SPCA, Provincial Office
Alison Cross, Director, Marketing & Communications
905-853-2108
across@ospca.on.ca
www.OntarioSPCA.ca