July 13th, 2015

Calgary, AB — Immediate Release

Riverfront Aquariums, located at 312 Meridian Rd N.E., has been charged under the Animal Protection Act of Alberta this week, marking the third set of charges laid since September 2014.

The most recent charges stem from a June 18 seizure of four animals in medical distress, including a basilisk (lizard), a tree frog and two day geckos. On May 7, an iguana and chameleon in medical distress were seized resulting in a second set of charges.

The string of animal cruelty charges began September 12, 2014 with the seizure of nine rabbits and a bearded dragon, all suffering from neglect.

“It is very concerning to see a business dedicated to the sale of animals charged once, but to see subsequent charges laid demonstrates either an inability or unwillingness to properly care for their animals. A business claiming to be an expert in the care of exotic animals, to me, has a higher expectation of care than a lay person. Store stock, just like a family pet, has the same legislated protection from deprival of basic needs. Whether medical care eats in to profit margins or not, it is a legal obligation” says Brad Nichols, Senior Manager, Animal Cruelty Investigations with Calgary Humane Society.

Wayne WOO, owner of Riverfront Aquariums, is due to appear in Provincial court August 6, August 24 and September 8 on the three sets of charges.