Operator of Calgary Critter Care fined after pets found in distress

CALGARY – The Calgary Humane Society has fined an 18-year-old man after nine exotic animals in his care were found to be in distress.

Austin Wiltzen was convicted of neglect on Wednesday and issued a $700 fine. He will also be prohibited from owning animals for ten years.

Wiltzen had been operating an animal rescue organization called Calgary Critter Care for approximately a year, and was soliciting animals online.

“The message here is to know your limits, whether as a pet owner or as a rescue group,” says Brad Nichols, Manager, Cruelty Investigations.

“Calgary is saturated with animal rescues of varying legitimacy”

Tweet This Click to share quote on Twitter: "Calgary is saturated with animal rescues of varying legitimacy"

“Quite often we see people with their hearts in the right place, getting overwhelmed and into legal trouble when they do not seek help,” adds Nichols.

“Wiltzen is a young individual who will likely have a new outlook on the responsibility that comes with custody of animals when he is again allowed to have them in his late twenties.”

To report abused or neglected animals to the Calgary Humane Society call 403-205-4455.