ALEXANDRIA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Oct. 14, 2014) - On September 8, 2014, Brandon Lessard, of Alexandria, Ontario, was sentenced after posting a video on Facebook depicting a cat being lifted in the air and hitting the floor.
On January 27, 2014, the Ontario SPCA received a complaint stating that a video was posted on Facebook depicting animal cruelty.
The Ontario SPCA received a copy of the video which showed Mr.Lessard using his foot to forcefully lift a cat up in the air which caused it to flip several times before landing on the floor. This action was repeated several times resulting in the cat hitting the wall and the corner of the bathroom sink.
On February 4, 2014, Ontario SPCA Officers located Mr.Lessard who admitted to making the video with a friend. Mr.Lessard explained it was a misunderstanding and that the cat liked what he was doing.
Mr.Lessard was sentenced to one year prohibition from caring for, living with or owning any animals. He was also ordered to pay a $350 fine.
"Acts of animal cruelty are taken very seriously by the Ontario SPCA," says Steve Toy, Senior Inspector. "It is not acceptable to treat any animal in this manner."
The Ontario SPCA reminds pet owners that if you have concerns for the welfare of your animal there are other alternatives than allowing an animal to go without adequate care. Contact your local Ontario SPCA to discuss our available services. To report cruelty please call 310-SPCA or email your concern to cruelty@ospca.on.ca.
Ontario SPCA and Humane Society:
Protecting animals since 1873, Ontario SPCA is Ontario's Animal Welfare organization. A registered charity comprised of over 50 Communities.
Since 1919, when Ontario's first Animal Welfare legislation was proclaimed, the Ontario SPCA, with the help of its Communities, has been entrusted to maintain and enforce Animal Welfare legislation. The Act provides Ontario SPCA Agents and Inspectors with police powers to do so.
Ontario SPCA provides leadership in animal welfare innovations including introducing high-volume spay/neuter services to Ontario and opening the Provincial Education and Animal Centre.
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Charitable Business Number 88969 1044 RR0002
Contact Information:
Brad Dewar
Investigation & Communications Officer
Ontario SPCA, Provincial Office
289-383-3503