SPCA investigated by state

The SPCA of Niagara is still taking fire from animal rights protestors, but according to officials at the shelter a surprise inspection by the state Department of Agriculture and Markets last Friday showed that the facility passed 18 of 19 quality of care categories.

The information was passed to the SPCA of Erie County, which will be conducting a review of the Niagara County shelter due to charges of mismanagement made by animal rights activists.

The state inspection found that animals are euthanized humanely at the SPCA of Niagara. However, it also noted that records for three sick or injured dogs, showing whether they were euthanized before a state-mandated five-day redemption period, were not available. SPCA of Niagara Executive Director John A. Faso said "We will be open, honest and transparent when it comes to communicating with the community about the quality of care we provide animals in Niagara County. That is why we are sharing this information with the public."

On Saturday, hundreds of animal lovers lined Lockport Road near the SPCA of Niagara waving signs and demanding immediate action.

Also in SPCA news, attorney Paul J. Cambria will assist in the Erie County SPCA's investigation of the Niagara County facility.