(warning: disturbing images below)

The Saskatoon SPCA has made the decision to stop providing protective services as of April 1st. Executive Director Graham Dickson explains that the SPCA’s two Animal Protection Officers, appointed by the Ministry of Agriculture, have been doing this work for close to 40 years without funding from the province.

Last year, both the Saskatoon SPCA and the Regina Humane Society requested provincial funding so the two organizations could continue to enforce the Animal Protection Act, and were denied.

Dickson believes the two organizations are the only law enforcement agencies in Saskatchewan funded through donation. He says they can no longer take on the work without adequate funding.

Last year, the Saskatoon SPCA investigated 865 cases of alleged animal abuse or neglect. Dickson says, “We will work with government to support the transition and advocate for the enforcement of the Animal Protection Act in Saskatoon. Animal abusers must be held accountable.”

It’s unclear who will provide the service as of April 1st.

The Executive Director has released some photos which highlight the abuse the Animal Protection Officers have encountered:

Photo 1. Severely emaciated dog, rescued running at large

Photo 2. Dog found by APO in a house with too many other dogs in close quarters. Injuries from the other animals in the house.

Photo 3. An example of one of the many cats rescued from hoarding houses.

Photo 4. One of 5 dogs seized due to inhumane treatment and living conditions.

Photo 5. Emaciated dog who needed 80 days to recover.

Photo 6. Dog with a severe skin condition, owner surrendered to APO officers upon investigation.

Photo 7 and 8- APO’s often find animals and are unable to determine the cause of their injuries but are there to rescue these animals and bring them to the Saskatoon SPCA for treatment.