THS Investigations Agent Smith

Investigations

The Toronto Humane Society’s investigators and inspectors respond to reports of animal cruelty within the City of Toronto. Every year, we receive approximately 3,000 calls of suspected cases of animal cruelty, or neglect, of which we investigate 1,000 legitimate complaints.

We are available to respond to animal cruelty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. As investigators, we educate pet owners on how to be responsible and what their legal responsibilities are towards their pets. The majority of complaints we investigate are a result of lack of knowledge by the owner on how to care for their pet.

The investigations department receives calls from the public about the condition and care of animals in various locations and venues throughout Toronto. Besides pet ownership issues, we inspect:

• Pet Stores
• Petting zoos and community fairs
• Toronto Islands
• Movie and television productions using animals
• Canadian National Exhibition
• Royal Winter Fair
• Pet Expo
• Circuses and other venues that use animals for entertainment purposes

As agents and inspectors, we have authority to relieve animals in distress under the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act.

Whenever possible, we lay animal cruelty charges under the Criminal Code of Canada. Cruelty to animals is an offence punishable by six months in jail and/or a $2,000 fine. A judge may also impose a two-year ban on animal ownership.

For more information on animal cruelty, or to report a suspected case, please visit the Animal Cruelty section of our website or contact Toronto Crime Stoppers below.

The Toronto Humane Society and Crimestoppers have an ongoing partnership to aid in the investigation of animal cruelty. Members of the public can report suspected cases of cruelty to Crimestoppers.

Toronto Crime Stoppers