Two Mississauga Brothers Convicted After Leaving Dogs on Balcony in Sub-Zero Temperatures

MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Sept. 16, 2014) - On September 12, 2014, brothers Sasa and Danjiel Rankovic, of Mississauga, Ontario, were convicted under the Ontario SPCA Act of causing distress to an animal.

On December 19, 2012, Mississauga Animal Services (MAS) were contacted by the property management of a condominium complex, regarding two German Shepard-type puppies left out on a balcony on the 44^th floor, in sub-zero temperatures.

After attending the address and observing the dogs from an adjacent balcony, MAS contacted the Ontario SPCA for assistance. Both agencies worked together to locate the owners, and the dogs were removed from the balcony. On January 25, 2013, both organizations were called back to the same residence. The same dogs were found on the balcony for a second time.

It was determined by experts that the dogs were more susceptible to cold temperatures at the height of the balcony than on the ground. Both brothers were charged under the Ontario SPCA Act with causing distress to an animal.

Both men pled guilty and were sentenced. They are prohibited from living with, caring for or owning an animal for five years and were also fined $1,000 each.

"Under the definition of distress in the Ontario SPCA Act, this would constitute the animals being subject to unnecessary hardship, privation and neglect," said Alison Green, Regional Inspector. "There is no excuse for leaving animals in a vulnerable situation."

Thanks to the joint effort of the Ontario SPCA and Mississauga Animal Services, both dogs are thriving in their new home.

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 Community to discuss our available services. To report cruelty, please call 310-SPCA 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.

Since 1919, when Ontario's first Animal Welfare legislation was proclaimed, the Ontario SPCA, with the help of its Communities, has been entrusted to maintain and enforce Animal Welfare legislation. 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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