Comments about DTA IV and the BCSPCA
June Stephen
July 24, 2004
The BC SPCA has an obligation to treat animals placed in their care with respect and compassion. A dog which is tested with DTA IV on the second day of it's arrival in the shelter is often in a very upset and traumatized state and will behave in a more aggressive / fearful way than it will a few days later, e.g. Day 6. IMO this is a very unfair and negative way to test frightened dogs who find themselves suddenly placed in an unfamiliar and strange place.

While I agree that some sort of assessment is needed as no-one wants dangerous dogs adopted out, there are many other methods which are better. I wonder if the BC SPCA has even taken the time to look at some of them or is it just a case of "don't confuse me with facts, my mind is made up?"

The BC SPCA Management constantly seems to forget that it is a CHARITY, not some big private corporation. It is funded mostly by members and donors, who want the animals to be well taken care of. They want spay / neuter programs to be in place, injured and sick animals to be taken care of and good enforcement of the PCA Act. They do NOT donate money for programs like DTA IV and those who are promoting it.

In my opinion the BC SPCA has been arrogant and uncaring in dealing with both the animals and humans alike. They seem to think that we animals lovers are all here just to donate our hard-earned money to them and then not ask questions as to how it is being used. So many programs have been cut that many of us are now asking ourselves "Where is the money being spent?

I sadly believe that the BC SPCA has just about reached the point where it is "Too broke to fix."

From now on any donations that I make will be going to the rescue groups and not the BC SPCA!

June Stephen,
Victoria