PEMBROKE, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Oct. 23, 2012) - On October 15, 2012, Pete Larocque, 59, of Pembroke Ontario, pleaded guilty under the Ontario SPCA Act for failing to provide suitable and adequate medical attention to his dog.
In June of this year, the Ontario SPCA Renfrew County Branch received a report from a veterinarian regarding a dog that had been brought into their clinic. Under the Ontario SPCA Act Sec. 11.3, veterinarians are required to report suspected cases of animal cruelty. The Chihuahua named "Rusty" was suffering from two broken legs.
The veterinarian treated the first broken leg on June 7th. A follow-up appointment, on June 15th, revealed that Rusty had sustained a second broken front leg. Mr. Larocque refused treatment for the second broken leg. The compound fracture on the untreated leg was deemed to be unsalvageable and the animal was subsequently euthanized at the request of the owner.
Mr. Larocque was sentenced to two years probation, preventing him from obtaining more animals, and allowing the Ontario SPCA to inspect the animals that he presently owns.
"If providing for an animal in your care becomes difficult, it is important to take the appropriate steps to ensure that the animal's health isn't compromised," said Senior Inspector Wilkinson. "Before you put the animal at risk, contact your local Ontario SPCA or veterinarian to see what options are available."
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 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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Charitable Business Number 88969 1044 RR0002
Contact Information:
Ontario SPCA, Provincial Office
Brad Dewar
Investigation & Communications Officer
289-383-3503
www.OntarioSPCA.ca