Animal control officers only found issues at two licensed kennels in Chatham-Kent during a recent inspection blitz.
PAWR Animal Control officials recently completed a two-month blitz in Wards 2, 4, 5, and 6 and didn't find any issues at 24 of the 26 facilities they inspected.
"We had no expectations when we began our inspections and were impressed by the positive response of most of the kennel owners/operators," said Jason Hamm, Chatham-Kent's manager of Animal Control Services. "We are delighted that the vast majority of kennel owners/operators in our community take great pride in the care they provide their animals."
One of the kennels reportedly had "minor violations" while a second one is still the subject of an open investigation. Both of those kennels are in Ward 2, but Hamm declined to release any more information that could identify them.
According to Hamm, the kennel that is currently under investigation needs to "make some improvements for the winter months and improve on overall site cleanliness."
The report on the inspections indicated that most kennel owners/operators in Chatham-Kent were pleased to have the inspection, calling it "educational" and adding that they believe it may be the first time something like this has been done in the area.
During a kennel inspection, officers ensure the shelter, bedding, food, water, cages, runs, and overall site cleanliness are sufficient for the animal's needs.
Anyone with concerns about a kennel who believes it may violate the standards above should contact PAWR Animal Control at 226-996-9969 ext. 1.
