MEDIA RELEASE

Oshawa On, (April 17,2007)—The Humane Society of Durham Region-SPCA is  investigating a horrible case of animal neglect.  A seven month puppy is now recovering after being found in terrible condition.  When SPCA Officer Debby Houghton first saw  the puppy she could not believe the animal could still be alive.  Officer Houghton rushed the puppy named SADIE to a veterinarian fearing the  puppy would die before she even got to the clinic.  SADIE was so emaciated that the puppy was a walking skeleton with just skin over bone, sunken eyes, with no fat stores and Officer Houghton had feared even holding the puppy would result in the puppy bones breaking.

‘SADIE’ is a fighter and now is recovering.  Although she still looks terrible she is improving a little at a time and we all are hoping for the best.

Combine costs of SADIE veterinarian care is upwards of  $3,900.  The puppy’s care is being covered under the Humane Society of Durham Region Gift for Life Fund a designated fund of the Humane Society which is supported by donors to help animals that have been injured or abused and require extensive medical care.  We are offering a plea to the community to help raise the money to cover the cost of SADIE medical care so we can continue to be there for other animals that are in desperate need with no help available.

The Humane Society of Durham Region is a registered charity relying on donations to fund animal protection, care and rehabilitation.

Criminal Charges have been layed by the Humane Society of Durham Region-SPCA Investigations Department.

Please contact: Agent Debby Houghton at 905-433-3965 or 905-242-8461

Animal Cruelty Investigations

The Humane Society of Durham Region Investigations Department delivers front line protection for all animals.  We respond to hundreds of complaints of animal abuse and neglect annually. We rescue animals by issuing orders to improve conditions and remove animals from life-threatening and abusive situations. We also lay criminal charges when warranted.

While the vast majority of cases that our department investigates involve companion animals, we also investigate a large number of farm animals and wildlife.

Being a non-profit organization, any donations to help us with the expenses incurred while conducting investigations are greatly appreciated.

Stay tuned for any new developments.

We need members of the community of Durham Region to phone the Investigations Department of the Humane Society of Durham Region if one suspects animal cruelty or neglect. We can be reached at 905-433-2022.

The Criminal Code of Canada requires owners and custodians to provide suitable and adequate food, water, shelter and care for their animals. Failure to supply these necessities could result in the animal being removed and may lead to prosecution of its owner.

An Extract of the Criminal Code related to Animal Cruelty can be downloaded here . This extract is provided for general information only and should not be used for any legal purpose.