Friends of O’Connor Township man say animals not being neglected

Friends and neighbours of an O'Connor township property owner are refuting allegations that animals on the property are being neglected. 

This comes after a group of concerned residents called upon police and the Humane Society to look into the welfare of dozens of horses, cows and pigs on the farm. The group, which has created a Facebook page, says the animals on the property appear to have no food, water or proper shelter.

The owner, along with a small group of neighbours, declined to speak on camera with Thunder Bay Television news reporters, but insisted that the claims are completely false.

They say several large bales of hay on and around the property are proof that the animals are being fed. The 84-year old owner, who's been ill in recent years, also claims he's constructed several shelters, but the animals have destroyed them all. 

He added that the animals want to be outside. 

The Humane Society and the Ontario SPCA are investigating the matter.  

An inspector has issued an order to have a farrier tend to some of the animals with damaged hooves.  A second inspector is now being brought in to help with the investigation. 

The group that raised the concerns is asking residents to refrain from trying to help the animals themselves, and instead allow the authorities to carry out their investigation.