Lion Attempts to Escape Pen: Utterson Man Charged With One Count Under the Ontario SPCA Act

UTTERSON, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 3, 2012) - On August 31, 2012, an Utterson man was charged with one count under the Ontario SPCA Act, after his lion was found with substandard housing and had attempted to escape its enclosure.

Section 5(4)(b) of the Ontario SPCA Act states, failing to provide a pen or other enclosed structure or area for wildlife kept in captivity and any gates or other barriers to it, including moats, which must be designed, constructed and locked or otherwise secured to prevent animals escaping from the pen or other enclosed structure or area by climbing, jumping, digging, burrowing or any other means.

The incident was reported to the Ontario SPCA by the Ontario Provincial Police.

"It is very important that all animals, regardless of the animal breed or species, receive the care they need, including proper housing," says Senior Inspector Toy. "If ever anyone has a question about those requirements they are encouraged to contact their local Ontario SPCA for direction."

Currently, there are no laws, other than the Ontario SPCA Act, that govern exotic animals in this municipality. The Township of Muskoka Lakes is, however, looking into passing a new bylaw which would govern exotic animals.

The lion has since been re-homed to a facility that can provide a proper enclosure for the animal.

The Ontario SPCA reminds pet owners that if you have concerns for the welfare of your animal there are other alternatives then allowing an animal to go without. Contact your local Ontario SPCA and we can discuss what services are available. To report cruelty please call 1-888-668-7722 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.

Ontario SPCA is mandated under the Ontario SPCA Act to enforce animal welfare legislation and 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.

www.OntarioSPCA.ca

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