Sick, dirty animals, cages that are far too narrow, poor veterinary care: The BZ report on the animal shelter of horror in Wesendahl (Märkisch-Oderland) caused heated discussions. The operators had not responded to a request. The BZ confronted her on the spot with the allegations.
By Johannes Malinowski and Clara-Marie Becker
“This shelter has existed for 27 years now. Since then, the animal shelter has been controlled, for example by the authorities,” says Karin S.
The official veterinarian supposedly came every week. She declined to comment on the allegations of animal cruelty. But make it clear: Instead of 450, “only” 300 animals would live on the site, which would be looked after by six employees.
For comparison: In the Berlin animal shelter, 190 permanent employees take care of 1300 animals.
Read about this: Dead cats, parasites and too little space – animal shelter of horror in Brandenburg
“The care key always depends on the on-site conditions,” says Eva Rönspieß (33), chairwoman of the Berlin Animal Welfare Association. “Of course, a rabbit doesn’t need as much care as a sick dog.”
But: Six keepers for 300 animals are far too few.
“With such a low staffing level, no animal shelter can cater to the individual needs of the animals,” says Rönspiess.