Statement from the Toronto Humane Society and Hospital

TORONTO , Nov. 30 /CNW/ - We are concerned with the ongoing welfare of the animals in the Toronto Humane Society and Hospital. We have learned that the night shift (from 11pm - 7am ) has been cancelled. Any major change to operations causes significant stress to the animals, always our foremost concern.

We are disappointed that we continue to be denied access to our facility. We are contesting the validity of the warrant and are now working with counsel to resume operations.

We vehemently disagree with the tactics and assertions of the OPSCA. We think it's shocking that they are using a private security firm to conduct an investigation under the terms of the search warrant.

We are hearing from volunteers and staff that the OSPCA's private security firm is threatening and intimidating them.

We think all employees should have access to their jobs. Instead the OSPCA's private security firm is handpicking who it lets in.

We understand there sick and injured animals at the hospital because that's what it is. A place to return them to health, not simply euthanize them at the earliest opportunity.

We receive upwards of 1,000 sick, injured and abandoned animals each month.

The College of Veterinarians of Ontario conducted a thorough site accreditation investigation this month as part of normal practices.

We received our CVO certification from them a couple weeks ago.

We are audited by KPMG annually as part of responsible business practices. Audited financial statements are presented to and approved by members each year at the annual general meeting.

Revenue Canada conducted an audit of the Society's finances just last September and raised no issues regarding the organizations finances.

For further information: Ian McConachie, Senior communicator, [phone]