Press Releases

Rescue of Abandoned Animals Adds to Desperate Times at The Toronto Humane Society

	Some of the pets at the THS which were rescued from the Everything Under the Sun pet store

Toronto, August 17, 2006 - The Toronto Humane Society is desperate to find loving, forever homes for the hundreds of pets in its care after recently rescuing 133 animals from an abandoned pet store.

Thankfully, a concerned citizen contacted The Society about the Everything Under the Sun pet store, located in the Dufferin and Bloor area. The store appeared closed and unattended for at least three days. Toronto Police and THS investigators attended the store Wednesday, August 16 and determined the animals were in distress. They entered the shop and were met with the unbearable stench of feces and hundreds of circulating flies. THS Investigator, Tom Borescevski found a dead bird in one cage, a dead rat in another cage, rabbits running freely, and a King snake in the same cage as helpless birds. The majority of animals did not have food or water. All animals appeared distressed, hungry and dehydrated. The Society seized 58 small domestic animals including rabbits, hamsters and rats as well as 32 birds, 34 reptiles, two dogs and seven kittens. No charges have been laid.

“The Society is bursting at the seams,” said Lynda Elmy, Communications Manager. “There aren’t anymore cages available for the lost or abandoned animals that arrive daily. The situation is critical.” There are 450 cats, 90 dogs and 200 small domestics, birds and reptiles in the shelter.

The THS will host the Open Your Heart Adopt-a-thon from Friday, August 18 to Sunday, August 20 and plead for the public’s help in finding new homes for the animals.

“In an effort to find homes for the hundreds of animals currently available for adoption, we have waived all fees,” said Society President, Tim Trow. Note: The animals seized from the pet store are not available for adoption until the investigation is complete.

Adoption includes:

• vaccinations to date
• six weeks of PetPlan insurance
• a microchip identification implant
• discount coupon for Royal Canin Inc. puppy/dog food or cat/kitten food
• pet care information booklet
• unconditional love

“Open Your Heart” Adoption Hours:
Friday, August 18 – 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday, August 19 – 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, August 20 – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

In 2005 The Toronto Humane Society found loving new homes for 7,126 animals. As a not-for-profit organization the Society is funded solely through charitable donations. Its mission is to promote the humane care and protection of all animals and to prevent cruelty and suffering.

For more information, contact:
Communications Department

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