The BC SPCA has identified the individual responsible for the deaths of two newborn kittens who died after being abandoned in a Vancouver dumpster on April 19.

The day-old kittens, who were tied inside a plastic shopping bag that ironically read “Love You,” were found among garbage in a locked, underground area at 1040 Pacific Street. The SPCA rushed them to an emergency clinic for treatment of hypothermia and dehydration, but they did not survive.

“We are very grateful to the media for highlighting this case,” says Eileen Drever, senior officer of protection and stakeholder relations for the BC SPCA. “While we cannot share further details at this time, we can confirm that we have identified the individual responsible and will be recommending charges to Crown counsel.”  She notes that anyone convicted of abandoning an animal faces a maximum fine of $75,000 and up to two years in jail.

“It is heartbreaking to think that the two innocent little animals died needlessly,” says Drever. “There is always support available from SPCA shelters and rescue groups – it is not acceptable to throw unwanted animals away like garbage.”