Thouands of dollars in pet meds stolen from TMAC | Crime

Less than two months after tornadoes nearly wiped out the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter, it is dealing with another tragedy after thieves broke in overnight stealing pet medication and other valuables.

Many at the animal shelter think the burglary was in an inside job, more than one person was involved and the suspects knew what to look for.

The items stolen were kept in a special closet, including two safes. The safe that was opened contained $500 in cash and several hundred dollars in gift cards—all of which are missing.

Burglars also made off with about $5,000 in medication meant for dogs and cats which could have a high resale value. Most of what was taken was donated to the shelter that was devastated in the tornado—a low blow says animal lovers.

“We had donations that children had given, you know had come together from their community from somewhere across the country and donated,” Kellie Strickland with the Tuscaloosa Metro Animal Shelter said. “That’s about as low as you can get.”

Fortunately, most of the pets receiving care there were given their flea and tick medicine before the theft.

Shelter employees think thieves may have climbed a fence, got in through an open door and had plenty of time to take what they wanted since the security system wasn’t working. Work is underway to fix some of the problems that may have led to the break-in.

In the meantime, the shelter is once again accepting donations. It is located at 3140 35th St., Tuscaloosa, 35401.