TORONTO - The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals said Wednesday that it has suspended the Toronto Humane Society as a member after investigators searched one of its shelters and found four cats in "serious'' condition.
A statement from the OSPCA said investigators discovered animals in distress and immediate intervention was required due to "potential loss of life.''
But the Toronto Humane Society said it felt vindicated by the "surprise inspection,'' given that the vast majority of the 1,100 animals examined were fine and none were found to be suffering or in need of being euthanized.
Investigators were at the shelter Tuesday as part of a probe into allegations of inappropriate conduct at the shelter, which was prompted by a series of newspaper articles in which some people alleged animals were suffering because of a restrictive euthanasia policy.
The suspension means the Toronto Humane Society will not be able to conduct cruelty investigations and does not have authority under Ontario's animal cruelty act.
The OSPCA said its investigation could take weeks.
A spokesman for the Toronto Humane Society defended its euthanasia policy and said the society hopes it can return to its work soon.
"We must show leadership in ending the old-fashioned impound and kill policies in Toronto, where every second animal is killed in the municipal pounds,'' Ian McConachie said in a statement.
