The News- Serving Parksville, Qualicum Beach and Area
October 6, 2006

Kittens didn’t have to die

It is said that a country is judged by how it cares for its children and animals.

On Monday, Sept.25 I took four little kittens to the Qualicum Beach/Parksville SPCA. My neighbour and I had spent the weekend catching them and looking after them until we could get them to the SPCA for care and adoption. I also provided a large bag of kitten food to help with their care.

When I surrendered the kittens, I asked if they would be safe with the SPCA. As you will see they were not.

I told the SPCA that I was trusting the lives of these little animals to them. The employee was very offended and told me that all those working there loved animals and if they did not, they wouldn’t be there.

The receptionist told me that the SPCA only puts animals down if they are ill or not adoptable, whatever that means.

She told me they have people who spend time with animals that they are having difficulty transitioning to domestic life. I was certainly under the impression they would spend time attempting to help these kittens.

Today, Saturday, Sept 30, I went to the SPCA to check up in the kittens and to take another bag of kitty food for their care. I asked to see the kittens and was told “they were euthanized this morning.” As someone who loves all animals, I was very shocked and distressed at that news.

Only five days had elapsed since I had surrendered the animals. The lady at the SPCA told me they don’t have people to sit with the kittens or to help them adjust. If I’d known they needed people, I would have sat with them.

She said they were feral cats and would not allow the staff to approach them. I know that, but I also know that with time and a small amount of care they would have adjusted. I have a cat that was once feral and with love and care he’s become a wonderful pet.

Because I have surrendered those four kittens to the SPCA, they are now dead.

Nella Schmidt
Qualicum Beach