Source: Ontario SPCA

Orillia Area Man Sentenced After a Dying Dog Is Left Outside a Closed Ontario SPCA Shelter

ORILLIA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Sept. 13, 2013) - On September 9, 2013, an Orillia area man pleaded guilty to Permitting Distress to an Animal under the Ontario SPCA Act.

On the evening of July 5, 2013, a dying poodle-type dog that had been hit by a vehicle was left outside the closed Ontario SPCA Orillia Branch with two towels and a garbage bag. The next morning, on July 6, 2013, staff members found the critically injured dog and immediately brought her to a veterinary clinic.

The dog was humanely euthanized by the veterinarian due to the condition in which she was found.

An investigation was started and the owner was located.

Paul Awalt was sentenced to two years' probation and two years' prohibition from living with, caring for, or owning an animal. The man was also ordered to pay restitution to the Ontario SPCA.

"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 Steve Toy, Senior Inspector. "Contact your local Ontario SPCA 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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Charitable Business Number 88969 1044 RR0002

Contact Information:

Ontario SPCA, Provincial Office
Brad Dewar
Investigation & Communications Officer
289-383-3503
www.OntarioSPCA.ca