By the end of the week, the BC SPCA will no longer have a home in Vernon.
The organization announced today that it would be permanently closing its Vernon community animal centre on Friday.
The BC SPCA said it was a “difficult decision” related to ongoing concerns about the structural integrity of the building.
“We have been aware of growing concerns related to the building’s foundation, walls, and ceiling, but a recent inspection by a structural engineer has also revealed significant issues with the roof that would put the safety of staff, volunteers, animals and members of the public at risk if we keep operating from the facility,” explained Craig Daniell, CEO of the BC SPCA.
“Simply repairing the roof would not be a viable solution for the long-term future of the building, as the more than 35-year-old building is located on a former landfill site which is causing the subsidence and cracking of the facility.”
While the BC SPCA will no longer have a permanent home in Vernon, Daniell stressed that the organization remains committed to serving the animal welfare needs of the city and surrounding communities.
“Many of the programs and services in place in Vernon, such as animal protection, youth education and community support initiatives, are already regionally based and we are exploring opportunities to further support the community moving forward,” he said.
“The decision to permanently close the Vernon community animal centre was very difficult and not one that was made lightly. At the end of the day, we needed to consider the welfare of our staff, volunteers, and, importantly, the animals in our care both in the short and long term.”
Animals who are still at the BC SPCA’s Vernon shelter by Friday will be transferred to neighbouring animal centres like Kelowna and Salmon Arm.
