Welland & District SPCA: Media Release

WELLAND, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Oct. 30, 2015) - The Welland SPCA and Niagara Region Public Health are informing the public of an ongoing potential public safety concern related to Ringtail Ranch and Rescue in Wainfleet.

Recently, a lynx left the property and was found roaming in a nearby community. It was located and contained by the Welland SPCA and returned to Ringtail Ranch and Rescue.

In light of the lynx's escape and the potential for animals to leave the property, the Welland SPCA advises members of the public to do the following if they come in contact with any exotic wild animal:

• Call authorities immediately. Welland SPCA 905-735-1552
• Do not approach or try to contain the animal, no matter how tame it may appear to be
• Don't turn your back and run; rather, be loud, wave your arms and try to scare it away
• Use whistles, umbrellas and personal alarm devices to frighten an approaching or threatening animal

Wild animals may carry diseases that can be transferred to humans. Bites and scratches should be reported to Niagara Region Public Health's Environmental Health program at 905-688-8248 or toll-free 1-800-505-6074 ext. 7590.

The ongoing risk is based on current agency jurisdictions and the inability to expedite appropriate enclosure facilities within a short period of time.