OSPCA will still render some services locally

The Ontario SPCA is aware of the vote to cancel the current animal control contract for the Municipality of Chatham-Kent, said spokesperson Allison Cross on Friday. “As this news is very recent we cannot speak to next steps with regards to what services we will provide for the Municipality”, said Cross.

“The society would like to reassure the public that the Ontario SPCA is not leaving the community. We will continue to provide for animal welfare in the Chatham-Kent area as always through a variety of services including adoptions, humane education, rescue and relief services and protecting animals from cruelty by enforcing the Ontario SPCA Act”, said Cross.

The society investigates incidents of cruelty and adopts out animals under a provincial mandate in over 50 communities in Ontario. Municipal funding targets their local animal control efforts and will not affect the OSPCA mandate to protect animals from acts of cruelty.

“A community animal management strategy is encouraged by the Ontario SPCA for every municipality in the province. The Ontario SPCA is always available to discuss an appropriate plan and available services”, Cross added.