London-area animal rescue faces $200K bill after cats seized by province
Saving Animals' Lives Together says it received notice a complaint had been made though it was not told who made it or what it was regarding.
An animal shelter in St. Thomas, Ontario is facing a significant financial burden after provincial authorities issued a $198,156.28 bill for the removal of around 60 cats from their care. The shelter, named Saving Animals’ Lives Together (SALT), claims the costs were incurred for veterinary care and boarding of the felines. Bonnie Smith, a representative for SALT, expressed shock at the bill, estimating it to be around $200,000.
In May, the province’s Animal Welfare Service (PAWS) inspected the facility, which housed approximately 140 cats. Following the inspection, a complaint was made, though the source of the complaint was not disclosed. Consequently, SALT received notice of the bill and was later responsible for the removal of 17 cats that were euthanized without their consent.
Brent Ross from the Ministry of the Solicitor General stated that the owners or custodians are responsible for the costs associated with the provincial animal welfare service removing distressed animals from their facility. SALT is now exploring funding options, such as a fundraiser, and intends to appeal the bill to the Animal Care Review Board.
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