Statement of Account for animal care varied from $58,672 to $1,800 due to appellant's inability to pay.
The appellant appealed a Statement of Account totaling $58,672.98 issued by Animal Welfare Services for the removal and care of 77 cats found in distress in a rented van.
The appellant did not contest the facts of the removal or the distress of the animals, but argued she lacked the financial means to pay the account due to relying on ODSP and facing housing difficulties.
The Animal Care Review Board found that while the Act does not explicitly mention ability to pay, it does not bar its consideration.
Acknowledging the severe distress of the cats but also the appellant's limited income, the Board varied the Statement of Account to $1,800, payable at $150 per month for 12 months.
