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(SHELBY THEVENOT / iNFOnews.ca)

The BC SPCA announced its Vernon animal centre will be closing at the end of the week.

Concerns relating to the structural integrity of the centre have prompted the decision to close the animal shelter’s doors on Friday, Nov. 17, according to a BC SPCA media release.

“We have been aware of growing concerns related to the building’s foundation, walls, and ceiling, but a recent inspection by a structural engineer has also revealed significant issues with the roof that would put the safety of staff, volunteers, animals and members of the public at risk if we keep operating from the facility,” Craig Daniell, chief executive officer for the BC SPCA, said in the release.

“Simply repairing the roof would not be a viable solution for the long-term future of the building, as the more than 35-year-old building is located on a former landfill site which is causing the subsidence and cracking of the facility.”

The SPCA remains committed to the well-being of animals and to servicing the needs of the City of Vernon and its surrounding areas, the animal welfare organization said.

“Many of the programs and services in place in Vernon, such as animal protection, youth education and community support initiatives, are already regionally based and we are exploring opportunities to further support the community moving forward,” Daniell said.

The animals still in the SPCA’s care in Vernon will be transferred to surrounding animal centres.

There are two shelters within an hour and a half drive of Vernon, in Salmon Arm and Kelowna.

“The decision to permanently close the Vernon community animal centre was very difficult and not one that was made lightly. At the end of the day, we needed to consider the welfare of our staff, volunteers, and, importantly, the animals in our care both in the short and long term."

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