After 150 accusations of mistreatment and neglect, two and a half weeks of investigating, and three days of on-site interviews, we're now getting an inside look at the Niagara SPCA's audit by shelter consultant Barbara Carr.

"Both sides were right and both sides were wrong about something," said Carr. 

Since November 2019, multiple board members have resigned, citing they can no longer be connected to the shelter. There were also allegations of euthanizing a dog, and neglect of numerous cats.

Carr mentioned these in her report, but didn't find anything to support animal mistreatment. But former board members Kathy Paradowski and Donna Shepard say otherwise.

Carr’s report listed at least 21 recommendations, including examining the process for intake, as well as exploring ways to shorten adoption time, and using larger kennels for cats.

A lot of the recommendations have to do with staff training.

The audit cites an instance where, “The executive director become insubordinate with board members” and “many of his responses to inquiries were rude and even nasty.”

These were just some of the concerns from the former board members, who say they now feel validated.

"We are very concerned in the animal industry, if you have to tell people to be kind and not rude or nasty – why are you there?" said Paradowski.

Carr and the former board members encourage Niagara community members to read the report. 

Paradowski and Shepard say if the community is concerned, to contact their local legislators. 

The executive director did not immediately return a request for comment.

The president of the board told Spectrum News they are willing to sit down with us in the coming days. 

To read the full report, click here.