Do you have a question that is not answered here? Please contact us.

 

Q: How do I report animal cruelty in Montreal?

A: Unfortunately, Montreal (and Quebec in general) is quite primitive in its dealing with animal welfare issues. Many U.S. cities (New York, Detroit, Chicago are often featured on television programs about this subject), have humane society and animal control "officers" that can make arrests in cases of animal cruelty, and can enforce changes to the way animals are treated. Laws vary from state to state, but there are federal laws that can put people in prison for a few years. This is not so in Canada, where there is usually a nominal fine and the vague possibility of up to two years in jail. You can read about what happened in the Jesse Powers case in Toronto via the website link below. In Canada, there is far less capability to prosecute and/or enforce laws, although some cities, such as Toronto and Calgary, have rather well-functioning humane societies and animal control departments that have some power to intervene.

In Quebec, activity in this area seems haphazard at best. Police certainly have the power to press charges under federal laws (that are pathetically weak), but they will rarely do so. Although in theory, the SPCA at Jean-Talon should be able to help, they are often too overworked and underfunded to investigate. The SPCA Montérégie is reputed to be better, and there are other rescue groups that may be able to intervene from time to time. You can always try calling the police; some officers may be more sympathetic than others.

For more information about the ongoing effort to change the national cruelty laws - and this is quite an ongoing battle - we suggest you visit the following website:

You might also wish to get in touch with your local borough council and police to find out what exactly is possible and in what situations. You may discover some empathetic councillors or/and police officers. Also get in touch with your local MNA for info about laws and enforcement in Quebec.

To report any case of cruelty or animal neglect:

Leave a message at « SPCA INSPECTION » : (514) 735-2711 ext. 2230

In case of emergency please call (514) 735-2711 extension 0

These Special Constables respond to all complaints of animal cruelty and neglect. They also inspect places where animals are kept for sale, hire, or exhibition.

 

Q: Is the ARN accepting cats?

A: Unfortunately, the ARN is presently unable to take in any more animals due to financial restraints and overcrowding in our shelter. The ARN relies entirely on donations and receives no government funding. However, we can offer you constructive advice:

1) As we are sure that you love your animal and are willing to make some effort, why not place an ad in a local paper, or, if you can't afford this, why not try a pet store, vet office or grocery store.

2) For an ad in the paper, NEVER say that the animal will be free of charge. Make sure you say there is a fee. Unfortunately, animal labs are on the look-out for 'free animals'. We are sure you do not wish your beloved pet or rescued animal to meet this horrible fate.

3) Why not try putting up lots of posters in your neighbourhood with big bold headings saying something like "wonderful cats need home". This is inexpensive and may well find your animal a home.

4) You could also post your pet's picture with an autobiography at http://www.petfinder.com

5) If it is a dog you need to find a home for, take a look at our links webpage to get the adresses of other non-kill rescues who specialize in dogs.

6) Being concerned about giving up your pet or rescued animal:

a) Check their previous history with pets, i.e. did they have a pet for 10-20 years? If the pet died, what happened to it? Did the pet die young (under 10) and if so, why? Have they abandoned any animals and if so, why? How far are they willing to go for their animals? Are they financially able to care for a sick pet.
b) What is their general attitude towards animals?
c) Who takes care of their animals while they are on vacation and have to go away?
d) Do you feel comfortable with these new adopters? What is your general feeling?
e) You can ask the potential adopters if you could keep in touch with them and even visit the animal(s) that you're giving up if you would like to do this.

If you have to give up an animal because of allergies, please check http://maxellah.tripod.com/allergic.htm

If you are determined to and wish to, you can live with animals despite allergies.

We wish you good luck! Effort, time and money can do wonders towards finding a new loving home for your beloved pet or rescued animal.

 

Q: How can I build a cat shelter?

A: Northern winters are particularly harsh on feral cats and kittens who have not experienced this often bitterly cold season. The feral and homeless cats that do not find suitable shelter face many dangers -- chief among them are frostbitten ears and feet. We have seen ears that were so frozen, that they actually "broke" and became seriously infected.

Practically cost free, a shelter consisting of a Styrofoam packing case, some contact paper and duct tape, some glue or silicone sealant and hay or straw might help save the life of an otherwise homeless cat. When completed, the shelter should be placed in a spot that is sheltered from wind, snow and rain and in a place where the cat will feel safe. A rock, board or other weighty object should be placed on top. If the area is sufficiently sheltered, an old blanket covering the shelter top and sides is even better. The homeless cats also need food to survive the winter. Help and feed where you can.

Making the shelter:

1. Get free Styrofoam packing cases from your favourite restaurant. The cases come with fish and meats delivered to the restaurant.

2. Line the entire inside and inside cover with contact paper as the cats are likely to scratch the bare Styrofoam "walls".

3. Saw a hole at one end to serve as the entrance.

4. Cover the edges of the hole with duct tape.

5. Seal the cover back on using silicone sealant and a caulking gun.

6. Flip upside down so that the bottom of the case becomes the roof.

7. If desired, paint the outside of the shelter.

8. Pack hay or straw inside so that the cat can "burrow" in the insulating hay.

Built a shelter



 A story: caring for feral cats