As much as they'd like to see the SPCA survive, there's not much the city can do according to Ward 1 Common Councillor Bill Farren.Farren tells CHSJ news the city can't afford a million dollars to keep the non-profit shelter afloat but does have other ideas in mind to care for the stray animals, such as work with Cherry Brook Zoo or create a new Animal Rescue League.
Saint John SPCA President Melody McElman says they know the city is tight for funds and the only thing the shelter wants is for the city to maintain its $6,600 a month animal contract. She says they're not asking the city for any help or extra money but the zoo is not an appropriate place for a shelter.
The SPCA did approach Common Council this spring looking for more fund, which Councillor Farren says they couldn't afford.
The shelter is in danger of closing it's doors as early as this Saturday if it doesn't raise a large sum of money.
Thousands of dollars in donations have been made since word got out over the weekend and a fundraiser yesterday raised almost 3 thousand dollars.