Welland taking over Falls humane society

The Welland & District SPCA has taken over management duties at the Niagara Falls Humane Society.

“There was a few issues, and we’ve stepped in as a management team,” said John Brewer, executive director of the Welland animal shelter.

“The board of directors felt the shelter needed some leadership,” he said, adding he could not discuss the nature of the issues.

The board remains in place at the Chippawa Parkway shelter, he said.

The cat adoption clinic, which had been located on Montrose Road, has closed.

Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati expects the amalgamation will be beneficial to both agencies.

“You’re seeing this regionalization of services more and more,” he said. “The United Way did it, the chambers of commerce did it and everything becomes so much more efficient and cost effective.”

“At the end of the day, this is all about the animals and we want to do what’s best for the pets and pet owners and animals in the city.”

The City of Niagara Falls allocated more than $525,000 to the Niagara Falls Humane Society in 2018.

Diodati doesn’t expect that figure to increase under the new management.

“We anticipate this will be a more efficient set up,” he said.

Also, fundraising efforts will now support both non-profits. The first joint event will be Dec. 1 at the Americana Conference Resort on Lundy’s Lane.

Gala 2018 Roarin’ 20’s will feature a dinner, a silent and live auction and entertainment. Tickets are $75 each and are available at both shelters. For more information on the gala, visit www.nfhs.ca or www.wellandspca.com.