As someone deeply engaged in animal welfare, both professionally and through rescue work, I am deeply distressed by the flippant and inappropriate reactions of Councillor Brian Kelly and Mayor Gale Katchur of Fort Sask, AB, Canada in response to the psychological devastation resulting from euthanizing healthy cats, the laughing of causing serious harm and death to cats, and the condoning of animal cruelty. Their lack of understanding and compassion towards this issue is alarmingly inappropriate for individuals holding public office. There is irrefutable evidence that animals experience emotions and capable of suffering psychological trauma similar to humans (National Geographic, 2015). Irresponsible comments from public figures about this matter are unacceptable.

Public officials should exemplify the principles and ethics that their constituents espouse. Katchur and Kelly's conduct, evidences a lack of respect for animal welfare. Furthermore, their actions necessitate an immediate investigation into potential incidents of animal cruelty under their supervision. It's worth highlighting that according to the Alberta SPCA, animal cruelty cases have gone up by 18% in 2018 alone, which underscores the urgency of the situation.

We demand that Mayor Gale Katchur and Councillor Brian Kelly immediately resign from their respective positions and call upon the relevant authorities to start an independent investigation into potential animal cruelty. Additionally, it is important that our public officials be held accountable for their actions and words. Support us in our fight for justice for animals and standards of professionalism in office, by putting an end to this lack of empathy and disregard for animal welfare. Please sign this petition to demand their resignation and the prompt investigation into the situation.