Muskoka Woman Pleads Guilty to Three Counts Under the Ontario SPCA Act

BRACEBRIDGE, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 16, 2012) - On September 27, 2012, Deborah Pennock, 60, of Penetanguishene (formerly of Muskoka Lakes Township), pleaded guilty to three counts under the Ontario SPCA Act.

The charges included:

• One count of permitting distress
• One count of failing to provide adequate and appropriate medical attention
• One count of failing to comply with an Ontario SPCA Order

From December 2009 to January 2010, the Ontario SPCA Muskoka Animal Centre admitted a total of 47 cats into its care as a result of a cruelty investigation. 27 of these cats were voluntarily surrendered by Pennock and another 20 cats were removed from her property after Orders were not complied with.

The cats were examined by Veterinarians and found to be suffering from a variety of conditions including: poor body condition, stunted growth, flea and ear mite infestation, poor grooming, diarrhea, dental disease, eye disorders/disease, chronic-active upper respiratory and ocular infections, respiratory compromise, ocular discharge and corneal abnormalities including scarring.

Several cats were also in respiratory distress and 20% had respiratory disease, one cat had cardiovascular disease and another had an abdominal mass that was later determined to be a retained fetus.

The Veterinarians noted the condition of the cats strongly suggests they came from an environment of overcrowding, poor ventilation and sanitation, lack of effective vaccination protocols, poor nutrition, underfeeding, gastrointestinal parasitism, and physical or psychological stressors.

Pennock is prohibited from owning any animals for five years (with an exception of allowing her to have two cats, given she provide written proof to the Ontario SPCA of annual checkups, vaccinations, and spay/neuter certificates by a licensed veterinarian.

Pennock has also been ordered to pay $4,500 restitution to the Ontario SPCA.

"It's very important to carefully look at the number of animals in your care and ensure that you can properly provide for each one of their needs physically and medically," says Senior Inspector Toy.

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.

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