SALMON ARM NEWSPAPER – FEBRUARY 2003

SPCA MISMANAGED?

"If you are an animal-lover who plans to leave money for animal care in a shelter when you die, you may want to buy a $10 will kit from Lakeshore News and write a new will. Two very strong supporters of the SPCA in Salmon Arm have re-written their wills and removed the bequest to the animal shelter.

The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was formed over 100 years ago to advocate for animals and do cruelty investigations and not to pick up loose dogs and contract with municipalities.

In November, 2001, all SPCA boards in the province were stripped of decision-making powers and all their money was moved to or controlled by the head office. Highly-paid CEOs, first one, then another, are believed to be mismanaging the BC SPCA, according to articles in daily newspapers and a radio interview with Bill Good. Head office had nine employees but now it has 35 and is expected to grow to 50.

Some shelters are being closed and others, like the one in Salmon Arm, are in need of repair, but there is no money."