PETAWAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Nov. 19, 2013) - On October 21, 2013, Patricia Belanger and Peter Larocque, of Petawawa, Ontario, pled guilty to one count under the Ontario SPCA Act.
On May 20, 2013, the Ontario SPCA received a concern regarding animals in the care of Mr. Larocque and Ms. Belanger.
On May 21, 2013, an investigation began and Ontario SPCA Officers found several dogs living in poor conditions on Mr. Larocque's property.
Large piles of building materials were present in the area where the animals were kept, including broken glass and material with sharp metal edges. One of the dogs was secured to a building with a heavy chain wrapped around its neck, another dog was severely matted, and a third dog appeared to be underweight.
Orders were issued by an Ontario SPCA Officer for the care of the animals; these orders included removing the large piles of building materials, which were hazardous to the animals. The investigating officer extended the orders several times, however there was no compliance with the orders.
On May 29, 2013, the animals were removed by an Ontario SPCA Officers for failure to comply with orders.
"If providing for an animal in your care becomes difficult, it's important to take the appropriate steps to ensure that the animal's health isn't compromised," said Larry Wilkinson, Senior Inspector. "Contact your local Ontario SPCA, humane society, or veterinarian to see what options are available."
Mr. Larocque and Ms. Belanger received an $800 fine. A probation order was issued allowing the Ontario SPCA access to the animals.
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. Contact your local Ontario SPCA to discuss our available services. 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