Posted Friday, 24 October 2003, at 6:47 a.m.

I recently read the full back page SPCA ad in a pullout "Leaving a Legacy" that was in our weekend paper, the Coquitlam Now. I was not aware that the SPCA had a program called "Pet Survivor Program". The ad claims that if you die and leave them your money they will find a wonderful home for your pet and take great care of it. Have you seen the SPCA's idea of care? Alcatraz for animals.

The ad claims they will screen the prospective homes. What a crock! Here's my experience with the Maple Ridge SPCA . I had to fill out the paperwork but no one came and check my home before I fostered. Also, my girlfriend fostered a pit bull cross from the Coquitlam SPCA and no one ever checked where she lived to see if she had a place to live, fenced yard, etc. They handed over the dog that she looked after for 3 months but no one ever checked on the dog.

I know for a fact that SPCA screening is still very spotty, some staff trying harder, some still not trying, and that many dogs are still going to barely screened homes in very sick condition. In my opinion, this SPCA ad is false advertising.

Also, on Thursday, Oct. 11th, I saw an SPCA TV ad on "adopt soon". It was frivolous and encouraged people to get a dog for shallow reasons. This is the wrong message and the wrong use of SPCA funds. The SPCA should be educating people to spay and neuter animals because they still kill many unwanted dogs.

I have been rescuing dogs from the SPCA and dogs the SPCA would not help, for years, and I know what they do and don't do and these ads are not the truth.

Diane Young