In animal shelter Stray Wonderland in Hong Kong authorities discovered 110 dogs and cats in horrible circumstances. 36 were found dead, probably of thirst, starvation or disease.
During a two-day raid in the shelter by inspectors of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department in Hong Kong last weekend the animals were found either dead or lying in urine and feces on the ground, in cupboards or in cages.
“Those who survived were emaciated and when we gave them food and water, they were fighting to eat or drink,” a spokesperson of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) said. He added that there was no water in the shelter and they found bags of unopened dog and cat food. Some dogs were so malnourished they looked like skeletons.
All the animals are in the care of authorities now. The South China Morning Post talked to animal welfare volunteers in front of the shelter: “We are seeing if we can take them, but all we can do is wait after the police took our phone numbers.” Another volunteer said she was worried the authorities would be unable to take in so many dogs at one time: “If you cannot give us the dogs back, just please do not euthanize them.”
Police arrested a 62-year-old man, believed to be the manager, for animal cruelty on Saturday after the raid. In Hong Kong animal cruelty is punishable by three years in jail and a fine of 25,000 dollars. Still, there are so many reports of animal cruelty in Hong Kong. And seldom a conviction.
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