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Animal abuse investigators across Ontario are working in “shocking” and “very difficult” conditions that some fear could lead to fatal accidents, a recent report suggests.

The study

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, co-authored by Amy Fitzgerald, a professor in the department of sociology, anthropology and criminology at the University of Windsor, found investigators with the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals often work alone and do not have access to police intelligence databases or reliable communication equipment.

“What really got our attention was when the majority of study participants said they expect it’s only a matter of time until an OSPCA officer is severely hurt or killed on the job,” said Fitzgerald.

The report, released Monday, surveyed 64 per cent of the nearly 90 field officers staffed by the organization at branches and affiliate groups, the majority of whom are women.

OSPCA investigators act as the lead enforcers of animal protection laws. And while they can obtain warrants and even lay charges, the organization still operates as a non-profit and the bulk of its funding comes through donations, not the government, the report found.