Cat hanged from tree, survives - Timmins, ON

Friday, Nov 10, 2006

On Nov. 10, the Timmins and District Humane Society was informed of a four-month-old kitten found hanging within city limits.

Due to ongoing investigations, OSPCA agent, and executive director of the society Lynn Michaud can only release certain information, but is hoping it might help in locating the guilty party. Also, Michaud explained there is no government funding for cruelty investigations, so any lead or donation would be graciously accepted.

"An individual found the black and white kitten hung from something rope-like near the Timmins & District Hospital," she said. "Fortunately its back legs were just able to touch the ground, but once he got tired, he would have eventually hung himself."

Michaud stressed it was clear that this was an intentional act, as the 'rope' was tied around the kitten's neck and the other end to a branch.

"The kitten was lucky the individual heard him crying and went looking," Michaud continued. "He was examined, and there are no adverse physical injuries, he was just a little shook up, but this could have been a completely different story."

Michaud explained, under the Animal Cruelty Act, the current maximum charge is $2,000, six months in jail, and a two-year prohibition from owning any animals – a penalty she believes is inadequate.

"Right now, there is currently a bill at the senate to strengthen animal cruelty laws for harsher penalties such as a lifetime ban from owning animals," said Michaud. "Anyone can support this bill by writing to their local MPP."

The kitten, which society staff and volunteers aptly named Chance, will belong to the society as of tomorrow and will then be readied for adoption.

If you have any information on the incident or would like to know how you can help in other ways, contact the society at 264-1816, or visit the website at www.timminshumanesociety.ca.  

References

• Timmins Times - Nov 15, 2006

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