Peterborough Woman Pleads Guilty to Seven Counts of Permitting Distress and Failing to Provide Standards of Care

PETERBOROUGH, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Aug. 12, 2013) - On July 22, 2013, Wannetta Newell, of Havelock, Ontario, pled guilty to seven counts of permitting distress and failing to provide standards of care under the Ontario SPCA Act.

On May 16, 2013, equipped with a search warrant and accompanied by a veterinarian and the Ontario Provincial Police, Ontario SPCA Officers from Peterborough humane Society responded to a complaint regarding forty cats living in deplorable conditions at Ms. Newell's residence. Cats were found living in cramped hamster cages with multiple occupants, all sharing inadequate food, water, lighting and ventilation.

43 cats and two dogs were removed under a certificate of a veterinarian and subsequently surrendered.

This was Ms. Newell's second offence.

Ms. Newell received a lifetime prohibition from living with, caring for, or owning an animal. The Ontario SPCA received rights to inspect Ms. Newell's residence for compliance.

"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," says Larry Wilkinson, Senior Inspector. "Contact your local Ontario SPCA, Humane Society, 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 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.

OntarioSPCA.ca

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