Animals taken from local home in OSPCA investigation

A number of animals were removed from a Margaret Street home here, as the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA), aided by Wellington County OPP, executed a warrant on the morning of May 6.

Both OSPCA and Guelph Humane Society officials said they are unable to comment or provide details into what they described as an ongoing investigation.

Brad Dewar, a communications officer with the OSPCA’s investigative branch, did confirm an Ontario OSPCA warrant was executed and animals were removed under the recommendation of a veterinarian.

“The animals are now receiving the necessary care they require,” Dewar stated in an email.

“Guelph Humane Society has carriage of this investigation and the Ontario SPCA was in attendance to assist.”

While witnesses noted a considerable police presence in addition to OSPCA vehicles at the scene, Wellington OPP communications officer Constable Bob Bortolato said police were only on hand to stand by while the warrant was executed.

Neither Dewar nor Guelph Humane Society officials would release information by deadline about the number of animals taken from the Harriston home.

However, one resident of the neighbourhood told the Advertiser 28 cats and 13 dogs were removed from the home.

See photo on page 6.