Northumberland Humane Society Welcomes New Animal Welfare Enforcement Member
With support from the Solicitor General’s office, the Northumberland Humane Society (NHS) welcomes Tex Ridder to their new Animal Welfare Enforcement team. Officer Ridder was recently appointed by the Chief Inspector as the new Animal Welfare Inspector for Northumberland County.
“We are thrilled to have Tex Ridder join our team” says Kate Lennan, General Manager of the Northumberland Humane Society. “He brings over 16 years of animal welfare enforcement experience. His passion and dedication to both animals and people is evident in his work.”
On June 28th, 2019, the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (OSPCA) discontinued enforcement of the cruelty provisions in provincial legislation leaving the responsibility to the Ministry of the Solicitor General. The Northumberland Humane Society recently announced the Ministry has entered into a contractual agreement with the NHS to take on this responsibility until a new enforcement model is developed to ensure that our most vulnerable animals are protected from harm and kept safe.
The NHS has been providing animal welfare and supportive services in the community for over 50 years. In addition to direct enforcement services, the NHS will continue to provide education to owners about standards of care and provide animals and pet owners with any necessary supportive services.
“Our mandate is to protect the animals in our community so returning to the front line of animal welfare investigations was an easy decision” says Lennan.
“The community has been so supportive as we transition back into enforcement and adding Inspector Ridder to our team was the best decision for both pets and pet owners in Northumberland County.”
To report a case of animal cruelty and neglect in Northumberland County, contact the Northumberland Humane Society’s Animal Welfare Enforcement Line at 905-269-9409.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love