Wingham Woman Pleads Guilty to Charge Under Ontario SPCA Act, for Failing to Provide Medical Attention

GODERICH, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - July 16, 2013) - Marie Blom pleaded guilty to failing to provide medical attention under the Ontario SPCA Act after she failed to provide veterinary care for her 19 year old female Collie/Shepherd-type dog, which was afflicted with a cancerous mass.

A veterinarian who treated the dog said the cancerous mass would have been visible on the dog's front paw for months and would have caused significant discomfort and pain. Blom stated that she tried to provide medical attention herself by washing the wound with detergent.

In October, 2012, the dog was humanely euthanized shortly after being taken to a veterinarian by a Wingham Town Police Officer.

Ontario SPCA Officers then took over the case. By that time, the dog's entire front leg was two to three times its normal size from swelling and had a grapefruit-sized open wound on its lower leg.

Blom was sentenced to 18 months probation, five years prohibition from owning animals and a $250 fine. Ontario SPCA Officers can attend Blom's residence two times a year to verify compliance with the order.

"It's important that any time an animal becomes ill or the animal's body changes, like a growth developing, that the owner, caregiver, or guardian seeks the help of a licensed veterinarian," said Darren Grandel, Senior Inspector.

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 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.

www.OntarioSPCA.ca

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