Kim Archibald is the manager for the Surrey SPCA and the following e-mail was a response regarding Ms. Archibald's confirmation that pathology reports were negative for distemper.

April 8th, 2004

Thank you Kim for providing the pathology report information that stated the test results for the two dogs (out of six who died on March 24th, 2004) and had necropsies at Central Labs were negative for distemper, however the following issues/concerns are in need of addressing and though Big Heart Rescue has attempted to gain answers to these vital questions and concerns (via e-mail and phone calls) there continues to be a lack of communication, an avoidance of data and a silence that is deafening.

Big Heart Rescue requests an immediate response from Mr. Daniell to the following;

1) Why are animals that have obvious compromised immune systems routinely vaccinated at the SPCA?

2) Why was it stated during a telephone conversation between this writer and Ms. Archibald that a time frame could not be provided to guarantee against euthanasia due to space limitations at the shelter, when clearly it has been stated by the SPCA that animals are no longer euthanized due to space limitations?

3) Under what authority would the Surrey SPCA contact Alouette Animal Hospital to request Willy's remains be transferred to them?

4) What precipitated the miscommunication between staff, management and Alouette Animal Hospital?

5) Why did six dogs lose their lives on March 24th, 2004 while the pathology reports ordered by Big Heart Rescue were pending and due to be shared with the SPCA within days?

6) Why has there been a lack of response to voice messages and e-mails sent to Mr. Daniell and Mr. Busch?

7) Why have Surrey volunteers been placed on a "gag order" and are no longer permitted to communicate with Big Heart Rescue?

This lack of respect for an ethical and pro-active rescue group is demonstrating that the SPCA does not and will not support a desire to do what is best for those who have no voice and that the SPCA is most concerned with its political stance, positive PR and self-promotion versus conducting itself in a manner that gains trust and provides honesty in its dialogue.

At this time, Big Heart Rescue has no recourse but to issue a press release to all interested parties in an attempt to save future lives that are in danger within the SPCA facilities.

Gail Moerkerken,
President
Big Heart Rescue