Statement from the Park Board Chair on treatment of farmyard animals

Feb 12, 2012 (No. 9) - Park Board Chair Constance Barnes offers the following statement regarding a news report about the welfare of former Stanley Park farm animals:

“I have ordered a full review of the treatment of animals adopted by area farms and citizens following the closure of the Stanley Park farm a year ago.

“I was very distressed to learn of the alleged mistreatment of several goats and sheep adopted out to a local farm. At our request on Friday, the SPCA confirmed the well-being of remaining animals on the involved property and today I have directed staff to immediately request the surrender of any animals that were former residents of the Stanley Park farm.

“I have also directed our City Solicitor to take aggressive legal action under the comprehensive adoption agreement signed by this farm owner at the time of adoption. 

“News of the alleged violations of one of the adoption agreements signed with the Park Board for the animals at the farm is extremely distressing. Park Board staff undertook a comprehensive process to find appropriate locations for the animals and staff.

“Followup was undertaken at three months following transfer of the animals to ensure their well-being. In light of this alleged mistreatment, I have asked staff to immediately follow up with the 12 other adopting families to verify the condition of animals that were adopted at the closure of the farm.”

Park Board Chair Constance Barnes will do a media availability:

When: Sunday Feb 12, 3:30 pm
Where: Board Room, Park Board adminstration office, 2099 Beach Avenue

- 30 -

Media enquiries:  Joyce Courtney, Manager, Communications at (t) 604-257-8699 or (c) 604-861-4375

The Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation maintains over 220 parks and 40 major facilities throughout the City of Vancouver. The Park Board's mission is to provide, preserve and advocate for parks and recreation to benefit all people, communities and the environment.