CORNWALL, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Dec. 4, 2014) - On November 18, 2014, Ashley Labelle of Cornwall, Ontario, pled guilty to three counts of animal cruelty under the Ontario SPCA Act.
The charges included:
- Causing distress to an animal
- Failing to provide adequate and appropriate food and water
- Failing to provide veterinary medical attention
On July 29, 2014, the Ontario SPCA received a complaint concerning a dog that was allegedly locked in the bathroom. It was stated that the dog was in very poor physical condition, had no access to food or water and was missing large amounts of hair.
Ontario SPCA Officers attended the residence and spoke to Ms. Labelle who admitted to living elsewhere and spending very little time with the six-year-old Papillion/Chihuahua-mix dog.
It was observed that the dog was emaciated, covered in fleas and missing hair on one-third of its body. Ms. Labelle acknowledged that the dog had a severe flea infestation, had been missing its hair for approximately two months and had not received any veterinary attention.
The dog was voluntarily surrendered to the Ontario SPCA and immediately taken to a veterinary hospital for examination. It was determined by the veterinarian that the dog had a very serious flea infestation, a thin body condition and chronic inflammation of the skin. Several medications were prescribed.
Ms. Labelle was sentenced to a 15-year prohibition from living with, owning or caring for any animal, two years probation and was ordered to pay a $3,000 fine.
"The Ontario SPCA reminds pet owners that if you have concerns for the welfare of your animal, there are alternatives other than allowing an animal to go without adequate care," says Steve Toy, Senior Inspector.
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.
OntarioSPCA.ca
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Charitable Business Number 88969 1044 RR0002
Contact Information:
Brad Dewar
Investigation & Communications Officer
Ontario SPCA, Provincial Office
289-383-3503