RENFREW, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Nov. 20, 2013) - On October 25, 2013, Carol South, of Renfrew, Ontario, pled guilty to two counts under the Ontario SPCA Act; one for filing a false report to the Ontario SPCA and one for animal cruelty.
On October 13, and October 18, 2011, calls were received by the Ontario SPCA from a woman who claimed she was concerned for the welfare of a Chihuahua-type dog. The woman alleged that the dog was being physically and sexually abused by an Eganville man.
Ontario SPCA Officer attended the residence of the man and determined that the allegations were false.
An investigation into the false report was launched and evidence revealed that Ms. South was the caller who placed the false report.
In addition, On November 7, 2011, an Ontario SPCA Officer responded to a complaint about animals in distress on Ms. South's property.
The Ontario SPCA Officer observed a thin hound-type dog chained to a dwelling without food or water. The dog's ribs and backbone were very prominent. There were also 30 chickens on the property who had sustained pecking wounds not indicative of normal molting. In addition, Officers found a warren of mixed rabbits, and two donkeys with very long hooves.
Orders were issued by an Ontario SPCA Officer. However, Ms. South failed to comply with the Orders. Ms. South pled guilty to animal cruelty under the Ontario SPCA Act, in addition to making a false statement.
Ms. South received an order to pay $545.66 in restitution to the Ontario SPCA. She also received a prohibition order from living with, caring for, or owning an animal for 20 years.
"We encourage members of our community to come forward with concerns for animals that they themselves have witnessed," said Larry Wilkinson, Senior Inspector. "However, if a false complaint is made, an investigation into the caller making the false complaint will be conducted."
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:
Brad Dewar
Investigation & Communications Officer
Ontario SPCA, Provincial Office
289-383-3503
www.OntarioSPCA.ca