An Alberta couple has been arrested and now faces almost 200 criminal charges in connection with an animal neglect case that has the Calgary Humane Society desperately looking for new homes as its number of animal seizure reaches an all-time high.
On Aug. 30, officials with the animal welfare group, as well as city bylaw and police officers removed 92 rabbits and hamsters from a southeast home. The animals didn’t have adequate space, were kept in unsanitary conditions and suffered from medical neglect, according to the humane society. About a quarter of the animals were in such poor condition, they had to be euthanized, the shelter said.
Yesterday, Anthony and Chris Berry were arrested and each charged under the Criminal Code of Canada with 92 counts of wilfully cause or permit to be caused, unnecessary pain, suffering or injury to an animal and 92 counts of wilfully neglect or fail to provide adequate food, water, shelter and care for an animal.
“We are just thankful we were able to remove these animals from a very bad situation and there will be accountability for their suffering. We are very grateful for the efforts provided during this mass removal by the Calgary Police and Animal Services,” Brad Nichols, manager of cruelty investigations said in a statement released today.
The humane society told CTV it has seized about 600 animals from hoarding situations throughout the city this year. Usually, it’s no more than 250 animals annually.
The shelter is now overflowing with bunnies. Coincidentally, this is rabbit adoption month. The group is hoping the public responds to the need for new homes. Here are five things you didn’t know about rabbits.
Photo Calgary Humane Society
