Authorities have shut down a hedgehog rescue centre in canton Aargau.
Locals in the commune of Oberenfelden were shocked when they learnt the reasons why.
The cantonal department of health took the decision as the centre was breaking animal welfare laws and undertaking illegal surgeries.
After receiving complaints, the canton found staff had been operating on the animals, including amputations and tooth extractions, without training or the correct medications – meaning the animals suffered pain.
They were also being kept in cages too small. The law says the cages should be at least 1 square meter – but their enclosures were nearly half that.
The canton has filed a criminal complaint against the managers. A local veterinary office is also being investigated for supplying pharmaceutical products to the centre.
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