Chatham-Kent police are investigating after someone stole a large amount of dog and cat food, as well as other pet items, from the local rescue group slated to take over the animal shelter.
Pet and Wildlife Rescue (PAWR) is taking over the Park Avenue East facility, formerly operated by the OSPCA.
In the early morning hours on Friday, an Edgar Street residence was broken into.
A suspect or suspects made off with a large quantity of food along with a supply of pet leashes, outerwear and collars, police said.
These items were to be used by PAWR to stockpile the Chatham animal shelter.
“However, due to the theft, members of PAWR are scrambling to gather the necessary items needed to care for the animals,” police said.
An official with the group couldn't be reached for immediate comment on Friday.
In a Facebook post, PAWR expressed its disappointment, adding that any help would be welcome.
“This morning we are all in shock. Who would come into our garage last night and steal all of our dog and cat food, all of our collars, leashes, harnesses, coats, dishes, our cat litter boxes and the mini fridges we were to use at the shelter starting this weekend?” the post stated.
“This theft directly affects the animals we help and we are asking the public to help by reporting anything you may have seen or heard on Edgar Street (Friday) night.”
Group members will be at the shelter at 405 Park Ave. E. throughout the weekend and will accept “any extra supplies you may have to help us start all over again.”
Those who wish to donate pet food or supplies can contact PAWR at pawrrescue@gmail.com, or by visiting www.pawr.org
Anyone who has information about this break and enter can contact Const. Mike Taylor at 519-436-6600, or at miketa@chatham-kent.ca
