Send this page to someone via email

Staff and volunteers at Hope for Wildlife, an animal rehabilitation centre in Seaforth, N.S., woke up to find the charity was the victim of theft.

Hope Swinimer, the founder of the rehab centre, says they noticed the door to the learning centre building was ajar Friday morning, but assumed it was damage from the weather.

READ: Hope for Wildlife works to rebuild following storm

“We just thought it was the high winds,” she said. “[Another staff member] went in and evacuated all the animals because they were freezing.”

Story continues below advertisement

The building houses the centre’s reptiles, including turtles, snakes and other exotic animals that are used to warm climates.

“The door was open all night. We don’t know how long,” Swinimer added. “The bitter cold is very hard on reptiles.” Tweet This

Staff later discovered there had actually been a break-in and a donation box with about $1,000 was missing. Swinimer says the suspect or suspects had used a crowbar to open the door and caused “a couple thousand in repairs.”

Hope for Wildlife was robbed early this morning. Donation money was stolen. The building is equipped with video cameras. @globalhalifax pic.twitter.com/Au0Tb0ewoo — Reynold Gregor (@reynoldgregor) March 2, 2018

Swinimer says the centre will be reviewing their security camera footage and will be having discussions on new security protocols.

She adds she is thankful none of the animals was injured but does think the theft is concerning.

WATCH: Hope for Wildlife sees influx of orphaned animals

1:07 Hope for Wildlife sees influx of orphaned animals Hope for Wildlife sees influx of orphaned animals

“Yes, I am surprised. It’s a long driveway which they probably walked down,” she said. “I guess I shouldn’t be. I just live in my own little world sometimes when it comes to the criminal mind.”

Story continues below advertisement

RCMP are investigating the incident.

Over the weekend, Hope for Wildlife posted an update on their Facebook page where Swinimer shared how thankful they were for the outpouring of support and donations from the public since the robbery.

Follow @RebeccaLau