People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the deaths of 14 cats in Saint John.
Saint John Police responded to an animal complaint at a field near Ready Street before noon on Friday.
When they arrived, officers found 15 cats inside one dog crate, with no water or food. The SPCA says the crate had been covered with a trash bag and partially buried in a field.
PETA says six cats died at the scene, one died upon arrival at the veterinary clinic and seven had to be euthanized.
One cat, named Fanceen, survived the ordeal and is now in foster care.
The SPCA is investigating the incident, which it says is the worst act of animal cruelty it has seen in a long time. Police are assisting in the investigation.
PETA’s senior director, Martin Mersereau, said in a statement that the organization is offering a reward in the hopes someone will come forward with information.
“Condemning more than a dozen cats to a slow, agonizing death inside a dog crate shows an appalling disregard for others’ suffering,” said Mersereau.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Saint John Police or the SPCA.
