Two cats trapped in a dumpster near a city park were rescued by a Sarnia police officer and a good Samaritan Tuesday night.
Police said Cst. Erik Ostenfeldt was on patrol when a member of the public waved him down and alerted him to the cats. Ostenfeldt, a proclaimed cat lover, helped retrieve the felines before turning them over to the Sarnia & District Humane Society.
Animal shelter Executive Director Donna Pyette had a mixed reaction to the rescue.
"Sad, obviously, but happy that they were found and that between the good Samaritan and the police officer they were able to get the kittens to us safely. So, we're happy for the happy ending."
Pyette said the shelter will do the four-day stray hold on the cats, as is required by provincial law.
"But once that's done then they will be completely vetted and placed up for adoption."
Earlier this week, the humane society reported that they were at capacity and that their foster families were over capacity as well.
Pyette said the cats being placed in the dumpster could be a result of surrenders temporarily being placed on hold.
"Or it could also be the result of pranksters of something. It's hard to say, but it's sad to think that people are resulting to this, and we are asking anyone that does need to surrender, yes we are at capacity, but please call the shelter and ask for help," she said. "Let us know what your situation is. We are doing the best we can here to try and create some space and try and open up some of our foster homes."
Pyette said they've seen cats placed in dumpsters on occasion, and that fortunately, all of the ones they're aware of have resulted in happy endings.
Pyette said they're hoping more people open up their homes to animals in need. She said the best way to adopt a cat or dog is by booking an appointment online.
-With files from Natalia Vega