BY TOM HAYES
THE RSPCA has confirmed it is currently investigating claims made against a Traralgon-based animal shelter.
The RSPCA could not comment any further due to the investigation that is currently ongoing.
Accusations made against the animal shelter were brought to light after a Facebook post from an ex-employee gained significant public attention.
Among allegations against the animal shelter are claims against its former president.
The animal shelter has denied the accusations.
“The accusations are false,” a statement from the animal shelter read, before stating they would make no further comment.
Latrobe City Council has informed the Express that it is currently investigating allegations of animal cruelty.
“Latrobe City Council has received a number of enquiries in relation to a potential investigation of an animal welfare organisation with operations in the local area,” a council statement read on Monday, September 9.
“Council can confirm it is participating in an investigation relating to allegations of animal cruelty, which is being undertaken by the RSPCA as the agency responsible for managing and responding to cases of this nature.
“Council takes allegations of animal cruelty seriously and will continue to provide the RSPCA with all relevant information to assist with the investigation as it progresses.
“While this investigation is undertaken, council has paused an existing agreement with the organisation for the housing, care and rehoming of stray pets.”
Chair of the Latrobe City Animal Welfare Advisory Committee, and Latrobe City Councillor, Kellie O’Callaghan commented on the ongoing investigation.
“I take these allegations very seriously. It is deeply distressing to learn of any allegation of animal cruelty,” she said.
“I appreciate the time community members have taken to reach out to provide information and details that can be further investigated. Any information I have received has been immediately passed on to our team who are preparing a report for the RSPCA.
“The information contained within the allegations received is distressing and I understand how difficult it can be for anyone to have to recount and relay this information to our team or the RSPCA.”
